Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta hits all the right notes—comforting, savory, and incredibly satisfying. The garlic and Parmesan create a luxurious sauce that coats every bite of pasta, while the juicy, pan-seared chicken adds protein and flavor depth. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that feels special enough for a weekend splurge. Plus, it’s customizable and can be on the table in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and black pepper
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Garlic powder
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Olive oil
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Butter
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Garlic cloves, minced
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Chicken broth
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Heavy cream
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
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Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to low, add the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
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Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
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Toss the pasta in the garlic Parmesan sauce, then top with the sliced chicken.
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
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Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
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Swap the protein: Try shrimp or grilled tofu instead of chicken.
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Use different pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work just as well.
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Lighter version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less cheese.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each to maintain the creamy consistency.
FAQs
How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To avoid curdling, make sure to lower the heat before adding the cream and stir constantly while gradually incorporating the Parmesan cheese.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken works well. Just slice it and add it to the sauce before tossing with pasta.
What kind of pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine, penne, linguine, or rigatoni are great options that hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can make the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture. Combine everything just before serving.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Use unsweetened almond milk with a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese, though the flavor and texture will differ.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Let the sauce simmer a bit longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water to help it thicken.
Can I freeze this pasta?
It’s not ideal to freeze due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What type of Parmesan should I use?
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded varieties may not melt as smoothly.
Can I add white wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of white wine added after sautéing the garlic can deepen the flavor of the sauce.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free pasta and check that your chicken broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a crave-worthy dish that delivers rich flavor, comfort, and simplicity in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it for guests, it’s sure to become a favorite in your rotation. With a handful of pantry staples and just 35 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, with a luscious sauce, juicy chicken, and your choice of pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a satisfying and versatile dish that works for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, add the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
- Toss the pasta in the garlic Parmesan sauce, then top with sliced chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.
- Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Try with different pasta shapes like rigatoni or spaghetti.
- Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- To reheat, use a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 730
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
