If you’re searching for a dinner that’s equal parts comforting, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish is everything you want on a busy weeknight or for a cozy gathering with friends. Juicy, skillet-seared chicken mingles with velvety Parmesan sauce and tender pasta, all given a lift by aromatic garlic and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s a guaranteed hit that’s as easy as it is impressive!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a few simple ingredients can create such an irresistible meal! Each element in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings something special to the table, whether it’s richness, bold flavor, or the perfect texture for soaking up that creamy sauce.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces so every forkful includes juicy chicken.
Olive oil: The go-to for browning chicken and infusing everything with a subtle, fruity richness.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and making all the flavors pop.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Four cloves, minced, deliver a bold, aromatic punch that defines this pasta.
Heavy cream: The key to that luscious, silky sauce everyone will swoon over.
Parmesan cheese: Grated for maximum melt and nutty, salty goodness in every bite.
Pasta: Penne or fettuccine work beautifully to catch all that creamy sauce.
Italian seasoning: A quick sprinkle brings herby, savory notes that round out the flavor.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat—add as much or as little as you like.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled over the top, it adds color and a fresh finish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start things off by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it just until al dente according to the package instructions. Once it’s perfectly tender but still has a bite, drain it and set aside. This step lets you focus on building the rich, creamy sauce while your noodles are ready and waiting.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want the chicken to become beautifully golden and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside—you’ll be adding it back in soon.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet (no need to wash away those flavorful brown bits!), toss in your minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about a minute until fragrant and slightly golden. This is where the magic of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta really begins to shine.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Let the sauce bubble and thicken for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often so it stays smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so each piece of pasta and chicken is fully coated with that dreamy, garlicky Parmesan cream. Let it cook together for a couple more minutes to heat through and let the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and maybe an extra shower of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot and enjoy all the oohs and aahs around the table!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a little herbaceous freshness to balance the richness of the sauce. For even more flavor and texture, top your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with extra Parmesan, a few twists of cracked black pepper, or even a handful of crispy bacon bits.

Side Dishes

This pasta is already hearty, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli. Don’t forget a side of warm, crusty bread for mopping up every bit of that luscious sauce—it’s basically mandatory!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your presentation, try serving the pasta in wide, shallow bowls and twirl the noodles into little nests. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan right at the table for a restaurant-style flourish, or serve in a big family-style platter for a cozy, communal feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully. Transfer any extra to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a treat for lunch the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze this pasta! Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the creamiest results, reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work well in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Choose your favorite shape or whatever’s in your pantry.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free version, try an unsweetened oat or cashew cream.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Try tossing in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli with the pasta and chicken for extra color and nutrition.

How can I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. You can also sprinkle some chili crisp or sliced fresh chili on top for an extra kick.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken juicy?

Be sure not to overcook the chicken; once it’s golden and cooked through, remove it from the pan. Letting it rest briefly before combining with the sauce helps keep it tender and juicy in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something creamy, garlicky, and full of comforting flavors, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Give it a try and watch everyone dig in with big smiles—there’s nothing better than sharing a meal like this with people you love!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breast pieces simmered in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, with an optional gluten-free version available.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Pasta & Garnish

8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Toss pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
Finish and serve: Cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot.

Notes

For added texture and flavor, top with extra shredded Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits.
You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich and creamy.
Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free dish.
Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly for food safety and best texture.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your tolerance for spiciness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American