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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for College Students Cooking on a Budget

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for College Students Cooking on a Budget

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, satisfying, and budget-friendly meal that's perfect for college students, busy weeknights, or anyone looking for an easy homemade comfort food recipe. Tender seasoned chicken is combined with perfectly cooked pasta and tossed in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce that tastes like a restaurant-quality dish while using simple, affordable ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 670
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces 340g penne, rotini, or fettuccine pasta
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
  • For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic, grate the parmesan cheese, and chop the parsley. Measure out all ingredients before cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 7–9 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the mixture gently simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
  4. If needed, stir in a little reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.
Step 6: Combine Everything
  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Continue cooking for 1–2 minutes over low heat.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
  1. Top with chopped parsley, extra parmesan cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Freshly grated parmesan cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese and creates a smoother sauce.
Reserve extra pasta water in case the sauce thickens too much.
Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a more economical option.
Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas to make the meal even more filling.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
This recipe is excellent for meal prep and budget-friendly weekly cooking.