Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ideal weeknight dinner. It’s quick, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. The creamy parmesan sauce is packed with garlic and herbs, clinging to every bite of pasta and juicy chicken. It’s also highly customizable—use your favorite type of pasta or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Whether served fresh or reheated, it never loses its comforting appeal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
olive oil
butter
garlic, minced
chicken broth
heavy cream
grated parmesan cheese
cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning
pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined.
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Mix in the grated parmesan cheese and cream cheese if using. Stir until melted and smooth.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
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Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
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Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
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Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
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Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
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Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
What kind of pasta works best with creamy garlic parmesan chicken?
Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best, as their shapes hold the sauce well. However, any pasta you have on hand will work.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used. Just add it to the sauce and heat through before mixing with the pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a bit of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s texture.
Can I freeze garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Freezing is not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing. Fresh or refrigerated leftovers are best.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add more grated parmesan cheese or reduce the sauce slightly longer on the stove to thicken it naturally.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, full-fat milk, or a dairy-free cream substitute depending on your dietary preference.
Is cream cheese necessary?
No, but it adds extra creaminess. You can skip it or replace it with a bit more parmesan or even mascarpone.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Broccoli, spinach, peas, or mushrooms make great additions to this pasta.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking. Cook the chicken just until done and let it rest before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy version.
Conclusion
The ultimate creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. With its rich, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta base, it’s hard not to love. Keep this one in your rotation—you’ll find yourself craving it week after week.
The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Made with tender chicken, a velvety garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this crowd-pleaser will quickly become a weekly favorite. Ideal for families and anyone craving a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make Roux: In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make Sauce: Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine: Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
