Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Tender chicken breast is seared and combined with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, then tossed with pasta for a satisfying, cheesy dish that the whole family will love. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and ready in under an hour.

ingredients

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

boneless skinless chicken breastsspaghettior fettuccineolive oilbuttergarlic clovesheavy creamparmesan cheesechicken brothitalian seasoningparsley (optional, for garnish)salt and black pepper

directions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add grated parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted and the sauce thickens.

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet, simmering briefly in the sauce.

Add the cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.

Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Swap parmesan for romano or asiago for a different cheesy twist.

Use penne or bowtie pasta instead of spaghetti or fettuccine.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.Avoid microwaving too long to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A mix of milk and a bit of cream cheese can help thicken it.

What type of parmesan works best?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives the best flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties if possible.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store sauce and pasta separately for best texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute vegetable broth or even pasta water with a bit of extra seasoning.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Not ideal, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. Better for fresh or refrigerated leftovers.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low once the cream is added and stir continuously while adding cheese.

What sides go well with this dish?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are perfect pairings.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely! Sauté them after the garlic for extra depth of flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy, cheesy flavor is a hit with kids of all ages.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both decadent and simple to prepare. With its rich, garlicky sauce and juicy chicken, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this pasta delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.