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)
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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
