If you are craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying dinner, look no further than this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and velvety cheese infused with fragrant garlic—all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal fuss. Every bite is a perfect harmony of gooey mozzarella, nutty Parmesan, aromatic herbs, and a touch of peppery seasoning that will quickly turn this dish into a beloved staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each item plays a vital part—from the juicy chicken that brings protein and heartiness, to the cheeses that create a luscious, melty sauce, and the garlic that lifts everything with its irresistible aroma.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with savory depth and warmth.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the pasta moist.
- 1 cup milk: Makes the sauce creamy without being too heavy.
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini): Perfect shapes to trap the cheesy sauce.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, stringy texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty complexity to the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings the Italian flair.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and balance.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds fresh color and a hint of brightness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This step seals in the juices and creates a lovely crust that adds texture to the dish. Once cooked, set the chicken aside for now—don’t skip this step because perfectly cooked chicken is the heart of this recipe.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Add Liquids
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and cook just until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds. This quick step unlocks garlic’s full aroma without burning it. Then, pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. These liquids will form the base for your creamy pasta sauce, so it’s important to use fresh broth and whole or 2% milk for the best texture and flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Once the liquid is simmering, stir in the uncooked pasta, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—about 10 to 12 minutes. This no-drain method allows the pasta to soak up all those good flavors while staying perfectly creamy.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cheese
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the pasta. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top, then stir everything together gently. The residual heat will melt the cheeses into a rich, creamy sauce that clings to each bite of pasta and chicken. This is the magical moment that transforms simple ingredients into a cheesy, comforting masterpiece.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up this hearty dish, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top right before serving. The green adds a lovely pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. For an extra special touch, a thin lemon wedge on the side can add a zesty zing that complements the garlic and cheese nicely.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish makes a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add some veggies, steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad are excellent choices. They add freshness and a slight crunch to contrast the creamy pasta. A warm crusty bread or garlic bread is also fantastic for sopping up every last bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate the presentation by serving the pasta directly from the skillet at the table, letting everyone help themselves for a rustic, family-style feel. Alternatively, plate it in shallow bowls and drizzle with a little extra olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. You can even add a handful of baby spinach tossed in during the last minutes of cooking for vibrant color and extra nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making it a perfect next-day meal that only needs reheating.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but because of the dairy content, it’s best to freeze it before adding the cheese. Cook the chicken and pasta steps, allow to cool, then freeze in a sealed container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and stir in the cheeses while reheating to maintain that creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce needs loosening. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken or curdling the cheese sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini are great because they hold the sauce well, but you can substitute with shells, farfalle, or even macaroni. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since different shapes can cook slightly faster or slower.
Is this recipe gluten-free or easy to adapt?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. Make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free and safe for most diets.
Can I add vegetables to this skillet?
Yes, throwing in spinach, peas, or chopped steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking is an excellent way to add color and nutrients without overwhelming the flavors. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if adding raw veggies.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic and melt perfectly for a creamy sauce, but you can experiment with provolone or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a twist. Just keep the ratio similar to maintain the dish’s signature silky texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you love a little heat, add red pepper flakes when cooking garlic or sprinkle some on top when serving. You can also mix in a dash of hot sauce or a diced jalapeño while sautéing chicken to kick up the spice level.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, coming together quickly but delivering big on flavor and comfort. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to share with loved ones. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become one of your favorite go-to meals whenever you’re craving something cheesy, savory, and utterly delicious.
Print
Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breast pieces are sautéed with garlic, then simmered with pasta in a rich blend of chicken broth and milk before being tossed with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a luscious finish. Garnished with fresh parsley, this comforting American dish delivers cheesy goodness with a hint of Italian seasoning in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Cooking Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Liquid and Pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
Cheeses
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine Ingredients and Add Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the pasta. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To increase vegetable intake, toss in fresh spinach or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of pasta cooking.
