Why Youโll Love This Recipe
Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort foodโtender chicken pieces tossed with pasta in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. It’s indulgent yet simple, perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when youโre craving something warm and satisfying. This one-pan dish comes together quickly with classic Italian flavors everyone will love.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into chunks)pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)olive oilbuttergarlic cloves (minced)chicken brothheavy creamparmesan cheese (freshly grated)saltblack pepperItalian seasoningcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
directions
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sautรฉ garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Cook pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions. Reserve ยฝ cup of pasta water, then drain.
Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Season with extra salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley and more parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a twist.
Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Top with mozzarella or provolone for a cheesy finish.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.Not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just add it at the end to warm through.
Whatโs the best pasta for this dish?
Short pastas like penne or long ones like fettuccine both work great.
Can I make this ahead?
The sauce is best fresh, but leftovers still taste great the next day.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add more parmesan cheese.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yesโcreamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor. Skip the red pepper flakes if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutelyโjust use a large enough skillet or pot.
Does it taste like Alfredo?
Similar, but with a garlic-parmesan twist and added chicken for heartiness.
How can I make it healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, light cream, and add steamed veggies.
What sides go well?
Serve with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish thatโs easy enough for busy nights yet fancy enough for guests. With juicy chicken, garlicky cream sauce, and loads of parmesan, it hits every comfort food note. Whether youโre cooking for the family or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy every time.
PrintCreamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a rich and comforting dish made with tender chicken, garlic, and a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s an easy yet indulgent meal perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5โ7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sautรฉ for 1โ2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth and thickened, about 3โ5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 2โ3 minutes more.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version (sauce will be thinner).
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and veggies.
- Grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken also works well.
- This dish reheats well, though the sauce may thicken โ add a splash of milk when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *