Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a rich, comforting, and absolutely irresistible dinner that comes together with minimal effort, this Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, garlicky, and cheesy in all the best ways, with tender bites of chicken and perfectly coated pasta that’s ready in around 30 minutes. This is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple—ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: You can have this pasta on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to meal for hectic weeknights.
• Incredibly Creamy and Flavorful: The garlic parmesan sauce is rich, velvety, and full of bold, comforting flavor—like a hug in a bowl.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish taste amazing. Pantry and fridge staples are transformed into something unforgettable.
• Family Favorite: Kids love the creamy cheese sauce, and adults will appreciate the savory garlic and tender chicken. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about creating bold flavor with simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Pasta: Fettuccine is classic here, but penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work beautifully. Go with your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
• Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and quick to cook. Slice it thinly for even cooking and tenderness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds that signature bold flavor. Don’t skimp—it’s the star of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luscious, silky texture. Half-and-half can work in a pinch, but heavy cream brings the richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is a must for that nutty, salty depth. Pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly, so grate it fresh if you can.
• Butter: Helps sauté the garlic and gives the sauce richness.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken—adds a subtle flavor and prevents sticking.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce to perfection.
• Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley brightens the dish and adds a touch of color at the end.

Variations

Looking to mix things up? This pasta is super flexible.

• Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make fantastic additions.
• Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for some heat.
• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, turkey, or even tofu if you want a different protein.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or a splash of chicken broth to cut down on the richness, or serve with zoodles or whole wheat pasta.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it helps loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, letting it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Add the freshly grated parmesan and stir until it’s melted and the sauce thickens. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if it feels too thick.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Top with chopped parsley and more parmesan, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty. Fresh is best here.
• Don’t Burn the Garlic: Cook it low and slow—burnt garlic tastes bitter and can overpower the dish.
• Use Pasta Water Wisely: Adding some of the starchy cooking water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
• Taste As You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust salt, pepper, or even cheese if needed.

How to Serve

This pasta is rich and satisfying all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:

Bread:

A warm, crusty baguette or homemade garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.

Greens:

A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Wine:

Pair it with a glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a complete, cozy meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but it’s easily revived.

Freezing

Not ideal for freezing, as cream sauces can separate when thawed, but if needed, freeze in a freezer-safe container and reheat gently with added cream or broth.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream, milk, or pasta water to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version. Just note that the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

What type of parmesan should I use?
Always go for a block of parmesan and grate it fresh. It melts better and adds a much deeper, nuttier flavor than pre-grated cheese.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well. Just slice or shred and toss it in during the final step.

How do I keep the sauce from becoming too thick?
Reserve that pasta water! A splash or two will help loosen the sauce while still keeping it creamy and smooth.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation. It’s quick, comforting, and packs so much flavor with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish delivers every single time. Give it a try—you might just fall in love with pasta all over again.

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