Save
There is something magical about transforming the beloved flavors of chicken Parmesan into an ultra-creamy weeknight pasta dish. This Creamy Chicken Parmesan Pasta nails everything I love about comfort food—juicy diced chicken tender penne and a silky cheese sauce all in one pot and on the table in just half an hour. It is a favorite for busy nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying but with minimal fuss.
Perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken if you have it. My family devours this every time I make it. The first time I tried it was after a long workday and my kids asked for seconds before I even sat down.
Ingredients
- Penne pasta: the sturdy bite of penne holds up to the creamy sauce well choose a brand with a nice chew
- Diced chicken: boneless skinless breast or thigh both work choose fresh or high-quality cooked chicken for best flavor
- Chicken broth: this builds deep savory flavor opt for low sodium to control seasoning
- Cream cheese: delivers an ultra-creamy texture go for brick-style cream cheese for richness
- Grated Parmesan: sharp and salty this ties in the classic chicken Parmesan taste look for a wedge to freshly grate for best melt
- High-quality Italian Parmesan: choose for the fullest flavor
Instructions
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- Add penne pasta uncooked diced chicken and chicken broth to a large pot.
- Bring to Simmer:
- Set the stove to medium and bring everything to a steady simmer stirring occasionally. Let it cook for around 12 minutes. The pasta should just start to turn tender. If it looks dry add a splash more broth.
- Stir in Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until everything is smooth and creamy and all cheese is melted. Make sure no bits of cream cheese are left.
- Taste and Finish:
- Taste the sauce and decide if it needs a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of black pepper. If desired add dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped basil now. Cook another minute for flavors to mingle then serve hot.
Works with other pasta shapes or leftover chicken. I always use fresh Parmesan for this dish because it melts so perfectly and adds a nutty punch you just cannot get from shaker cheese. My youngest likes helping sprinkle it over the steaming pasta which turns dinner into a little shared ritual.
Storage Tips
This pasta stays creamy when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If reheating add a splash of milk or broth and heat gently on the stove to bring back the silky texture. Avoid microwaving too long as the sauce might separate.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap penne for rotini rigatoni or even shells if it is what you have on hand. For a lighter version use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese or try a dairy-free cream cheese for allergies. Leftover cooked rotisserie chicken works great in place of raw diced chicken just stir it in with the cheeses to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for crunch. I like to serve it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. For extra veggies stir in a handful of baby spinach at the end just until wilted.
History and Inspiration
This dish packs all the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan in a much friendlier format for weeknights. Italian-American families have layered these ingredients in casseroles for generations but there is something especially comforting about everything coming together in one pot. My grandmother made something similar as a baked pasta—this is my modern twist for busy days.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer swap in fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes. In winter add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli. During spring try stirring in peas or asparagus at the end.
If the sauce seems thick add broth little by little until it is silky and coats each noodle. This dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite in your kitchen too.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, you can substitute penne with fusilli, rigatoni, or any short pasta you prefer. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding Italian herbs, garlic, or chopped basil for enhanced flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes also pair well.
- → Is it possible to use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, precooked or rotisserie chicken can be added. Stir it in with the cheese to heat through.
- → Can it be made ahead of time?
It can be made in advance and reheated gently. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.
- → Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Freezing is possible, though creamy sauces may separate. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerated up to 3 days.
- → How do I make it vegetarian?
Omit chicken and use vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty texture.