Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked); 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

This recipe is a hit for so many reasons:
• Simple, familiar ingredients you probably already have.
• Deliciously creamy without being too heavy.
• Ready in about 30 minutes — perfect for busy nights.
• Easily customizable with veggies, spice, or protein swaps.
• A dish both kids and adults love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Chicken breasts
• Paprika
• Oregano
• Garlic powder
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Pasta (like farfalle, penne, or linguine)
• Butter
• Dried shallots or minced fresh shallots
• Italian seasoning
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Reserved pasta water (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F). Remove and let rest.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add shallots and Italian seasoning, and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Sprinkle in flour and stir to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream.
Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Slice the rested chicken into strips.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Gently fold in the sliced chicken.
Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra parmesan or fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier texture.
• Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Try it with gluten-free pasta and flour if needed.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
• Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Farfalle, penne, and linguine are great choices because they hold the sauce well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat with a splash of cream or milk.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based butter, cream alternatives, and a dairy-free parmesan substitute.

Can I substitute the chicken?

You can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer a few minutes longer or add a bit more grated parmesan.

How do I thin the sauce if it’s too thick?

Use reserved pasta water or a little chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Just skip the searing step and add it when tossing the pasta in sauce.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

How can I make this a one-pot meal?

Cook the chicken first, then build the sauce in the same pot. Stir in cooked pasta at the end.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Its creamy, cheesy flavor makes it a family favorite for all ages.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a quick and comforting meal packed with rich flavor and simple elegance. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this creamy pasta dish is sure to please every time. Add it to your go-to recipe list — it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.