Irresistible Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crafting a delectable garlic chicken pasta brings pure comfort to your dinner table.

Aromatic herbs and rich cream dance together in this irresistible dish.

Tender chicken pieces nestle among perfectly cooked noodles, creating a symphony of flavors.

Weeknight meals rarely feel this luxurious and satisfying.

Minimal ingredients combine to produce maximum deliciousness that will impress everyone seated around your table.

Simple techniques transform basic components into something extraordinary.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: Comfort in a Bowl

• Quick Weeknight Winner: Whip up this delectable chicken pasta in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with aromatic garlic, herbs, and creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish delivers a mouthwatering combination that will tantalize taste buds and impress dinner guests.
• Versatile Meal Option: Easily customize by adding spinach, switching proteins, or adjusting seasonings to suit individual preferences, making it a flexible recipe for various dietary needs.
• One-Skillet Magic: Minimize cleanup with this streamlined cooking method that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner, saving time and reducing dishwashing hassle.

Must-Have Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Breast: A lean protein that adds substance and flavor to the pasta dish.

• Pasta: The hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese, Butter: These dairy ingredients create a rich and luxurious sauce.

• Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: These spices provide depth and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic element to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Helps to cook the chicken and provides a smooth cooking base.

• Tomatoes: Bring a touch of acidity and freshness to the creamy dish.
• Spinach: Offers a nutritious green element that complements the creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Select your favorite pasta shape and cook according to package instructions until perfectly al dente.

Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Spice Up Chicken

• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Sizzle Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place seasoned chicken into the pan and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Transfer chicken to a clean plate and let rest.

Step 4: Create Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic.

Sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and releases its delightful aroma.

Step 5: Build Vegetable Layer

Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they soften and release their juices.

If desired, toss in fresh spinach and cook until beautifully wilted.

Step 6: Develop Creamy Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and thickens.

Step 7: Reunite Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to merge with the luxurious sauce.

Step 8: Combine Pasta

Add the reserved pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every strand is lavishly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 9: Final Touch

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Best Advice for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Marinate chicken in garlic and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking to enhance depth of taste.
• Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking, keeping it tender and juicy.
• Add pasta water gradually if sauce becomes too thick, helping create smooth, silky texture.
• Replace chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based protein for a meatless version of the dish.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving to add brightness and fresh aroma.

Ideas for Changing Up Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add red pepper flakes, swap Italian seasoning for oregano and thyme, and include sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor profile.
• Lighter Health Blend: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, substitute chicken breast with grilled turkey, and add roasted bell peppers for increased nutrition.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Rustic Family Dinner: Gather loved ones around the table and enjoy this hearty pasta as a comforting main course with crusty bread on the side.
• Fresh Garden Salad Pairing: Complement the creamy chicken pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
• Wine Companion Delight: Select a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the garlic and creamy sauce's subtle notes.
• Herb Garnish Elegance: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and added fresh herbal fragrance that elevates the dish's presentation.

Storing Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the chicken pasta cools completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or cream to restore moisture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce. Stir gently to prevent sticking and maintain creamy texture.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute any pasta shape like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni that holds sauce well.

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, this recipe is mild with garlic and herbs. You can add red pepper flakes if you want heat.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce cream by mixing with Greek yogurt, and add extra vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they’re cooked to 165°F internal temperature for food safety.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic chicken pasta brings Italian comfort straight to your kitchen, promising a delightful blend of rich flavors. Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a memorable meal that will satisfy your deepest dinner cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless skinless chicken breast
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 10 ounces (283 grams) dry pasta (any kind)
• 1 cup (150 grams) tomatoes, diced
• 2 cups (60 grams) spinach, chopped (optional)

Seasonings and Dairy:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) butter
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and reserve.
2. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces with a blend of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (375°F), then carefully place seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, keeping warm.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30-45 seconds until aromatic and lightly golden.
6. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
7. Incorporate fresh spinach and cook until leaves wilt and reduce in volume, approximately 1-2 minutes.
8. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously.
9. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
10. Return chicken to the skillet, gently coating each piece with the creamy sauce.
11. Add cooked pasta and toss thoroughly to ensure even sauce distribution.
12. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
13. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Toast pasta briefly in olive oil before boiling to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent sticking.
• Choose chicken breast thickness uniformly for even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese instead of using pre-packaged for richer, more authentic sauce texture.
• Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for lighter, lower-calorie version without compromising creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 765 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 50 g
• Saturated Fat: 22 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 47 g
• Cholesterol: 160 mg