There’s something about creamy, cheesy pasta that just hits the spot every time. Add tender, juicy chicken and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s pure comfort in every bite. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of indulgence and ease—ready in no time and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family!
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Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress, this pasta delivers. The creamy sauce clings to every bite, the garlic adds the perfect amount of warmth, and the Parmesan? Well, you can never go wrong with Parmesan!
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish isn’t just another pasta recipe—it’s a game-changer! Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Rich & Creamy
The garlic Parmesan sauce is silky, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Family-Friendly
A meal that kids and adults will both love—no complaints at the dinner table!
One-Pan Option
Can be made in a single skillet for minimal cleanup.
Customizable
Use different pasta shapes, add veggies, or swap out the protein for variety.
Ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This pasta comes together with simple ingredients that pack a ton of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Pasta
Use your favorite shape—penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni all work great!
Butter & Olive Oil
A mix of both adds depth and richness while helping to cook the chicken to perfection.
Garlic
Freshly minced garlic is the star, adding warmth and bold flavor to the sauce.
Heavy Cream
Creates the luxuriously creamy base for the Parmesan sauce.
Chicken Broth
Adds depth and keeps the sauce from becoming too thick.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce, making it extra cheesy.
Seasonings
Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Fresh Parsley
For a bright, fresh finish.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s make this creamy pasta masterpiece!
Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add more butter and the garlic, cooking until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Make the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Melt the Parmesan
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Enjoy immediately!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This pasta is a full meal on its own, but here are some delicious pairings:
With Garlic Bread
Because extra garlic and buttery goodness is always a good idea!
With a Side Salad
A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness of the dish.
With Roasted Vegetables
Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make great sides.
Topped with Extra Cheese
More Parmesan? Yes, please!
Additional Tips
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Al dente pasta holds up best in creamy sauces.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well—fresh is best!
Thin the Sauce if Needed
If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.
Make It Spicier
A dash of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
Add Veggies
Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Absolutely! Any shape works, from spaghetti to bowties.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of broth.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: The sauce may separate slightly when frozen, but it’s still delicious after reheating.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A5: Warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
Q6: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A6: Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
Q7: Can I make it gluten-free?
A7: Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta.
Q8: What can I substitute for chicken?
A8: Shrimp, sausage, or even mushrooms work great!
Q9: How can I make it healthier?
A9: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and add extra veggies.
Q10: Can I make this in one pan?
A10: Yes! Cook the pasta in the broth for a true one-pan meal.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s both easy and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed winner.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy pan-seared chicken, tender pasta, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce come together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect easy high-protein meal for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
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1 lb shortcut pasta (Rigatoni or any type, gluten-free if needed)
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1 lb chicken breast, pounded to even thickness
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 teaspoons oregano
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1 teaspoon paprika
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried sage
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1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter (vegan butter if needed)
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons flour (gluten-free if needed)
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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2 cups milk (any kind)
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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For garnish: Chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes
Instructions
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Cook the pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
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Season the chicken – In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, dried sage, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook the chicken – Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent burning. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from pan and set aside.
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Make the garlic Parmesan sauce – In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Whisk in flour to create a paste, then gradually pour in chicken broth, whisking to remove lumps.
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Thicken the sauce – Reduce heat to medium-low, then slowly add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until fully melted.
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Combine pasta and sauce – Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency as needed.
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Serve – Slice the cooked chicken and serve over the pasta. Garnish with red pepper flakes, Parmesan, and parsley.
Notes
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Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version.
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Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg