The Creamiest Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Adore

Whipping up this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta promises a comforting meal that dances with rich, decadent flavors.

pasta lovers will appreciate how quickly this dish comes together in just one skillet.

Succulent chicken pieces nestle among tender noodles, blanketed in a luxurious sauce that whispers of garlic and sharp parmesan.

Kitchen magic happens when simple ingredients blend into something extraordinary.

Confident home cooks can master this recipe with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Each forkful promises a symphony of creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ready to transform an ordinary evening into a delicious celebration?

FAQs

• Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can easily control the heat level. Skip them for a mild version or add a pinch for a slight kick.

• Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works great. Just skip the chicken cooking step and add it directly to the sauce.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt.

• Do I need fresh Parmesan cheese?

While fresh is always best, pre-grated Parmesan from a container will still create a delicious sauce. Just avoid the powdery shelf-stable type for best flavor.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Magic

• Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Packed with creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and tender chicken, this pasta dish delivers a rich, satisfying taste that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring clean plates all around.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste: Using common pantry staples and just one skillet, this recipe proves you don't need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create a restaurant-worthy meal that feels like a comforting home-cooked classic.
• Customizable Comfort: Easy to adapt with additional herbs, spices, or vegetables, this versatile pasta allows home cooks to get creative and make the dish their own while keeping the core flavors intact.

Key Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Chicken: Tender cubed meat that forms the protein base of the dish.

• Pasta: Starchy foundation of the recipe that absorbs the creamy sauce.

• Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Creamy liquid base that creates a rich and smooth sauce texture.

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp and salty flavor to enhance the overall dish.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides a blend of traditional herb flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient that brings a subtle spicy kick.

• Olive Oil: Used for cooking chicken and providing a smooth cooking surface.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavor.

• Garlic: Adds deep, robust flavor to the sauce.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh touch and visual appeal to the finished dish.

How to Whip Up Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.

Drop the pasta into the water and cook until perfectly al dente.

Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, letting it rest while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook the chicken pieces until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown exterior and are completely cooked through, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the chicken to a separate plate.

Step 3: Infuse Garlic Flavor

Toss minced garlic into the same skillet.

Sauté the garlic until it becomes wonderfully aromatic and releases its intense fragrance, which typically takes around 1 minute.

Step 4: Create Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth

Stir the liquids together and let the mixture simmer.

Watch as the sauce gradually thickens and becomes luxuriously smooth, which takes approximately 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring each piece gets completely coated in the velvety sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the previously cooked pasta into the skillet.

Gently toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the rich, creamy sauce and mingle with the chicken.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Serve the pasta immediately while it’s hot and steaming.

Pro Secrets for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Toast garlic briefly to release its nutty, rich aroma without burning, creating a more complex taste profile.
• Adjust sauce thickness by gradually adding pasta water if the mixture becomes too dense, ensuring smooth, silky texture.
• Select freshly grated Parmesan for superior melting and authentic flavor compared to pre-packaged alternatives.
• Customize heat by adjusting red pepper flakes – start with a pinch and increase gradually for personal preference.
• Let chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture, resulting in tender, juicy meat that absorbs sauce beautifully.

Tasty Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a lactose-free version.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with roasted chickpeas or cubed tofu, maintaining the creamy garlic sauce and pasta base.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta, keeping the rich garlic Parmesan sauce intact.
• Spicy Mediterranean Spin: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning with oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Flair

• Family Dinner Delight: Serve this creamy chicken pasta with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal that brings everyone to the table.
• Elegant Entertaining: Plate the pasta in shallow white bowls, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and add a few red pepper flakes for a pop of color and heat.
• Meal Prep Magic: Pack individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunch options throughout the week, keeping the parsley garnish separate to maintain its freshness.
• Leftover Transformation: Repurpose any remaining pasta by turning it into a cold pasta salad with diced cucumber and extra herbs for a refreshing next-day lunch.

How to Keep Garlic Parmesan Pasta Fresh

• Store leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or extra cream to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently and continuously until heated through, approximately 4-5 minutes.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta combines restaurant-quality comfort with home-cooked simplicity. Rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken promise a satisfying meal that delights both family and friends.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Generously season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat at 375°F. Sauté chicken until golden and fully cooked, approximately 6 minutes, then transfer to a separate plate.
3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until aromatic and lightly golden, about 45-60 seconds.
4. Introduce heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking gently to create a smooth liquid base. Simmer for 4-5 minutes until sauce slightly thickens and reduces.
5. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. Add Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes for enhanced flavor profile.
6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, gently coating with the creamy sauce. Ensure even distribution of ingredients.
7. Fold prepared pasta into the skillet, tossing carefully to integrate sauce, chicken, and noodles completely.
8. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for visual appeal and additional herbaceous notes. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

• Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the most robust flavor and creamiest texture in the sauce.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level, making the dish mild or spicy according to personal preference.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
• Transform this dish into a gluten-free meal by using chickpea or rice pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 492 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 370 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg