Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, a rich parmesan-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting meal is easy to make and packed with savory garlic flavor, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.

ingredients

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

chicken breastssalt and pepperolive oilgarlic (minced)heavy creamparmesan cheesepasta (such as penne or fettuccine)butterItalian seasoningparsley (for garnish)

directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit of butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the sauce.

Add the pasta and toss everything together until well coated.

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal prep.

Add steamed broccoli or spinach for a vegetable boost.

Swap the cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Use different pasta shapes like rigatoni or bowtie for texture variety.

storage/reheating

Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a smoother sauce, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Can I use other proteins?

Yes, shrimp or cooked sausage also work well in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, but it’s best assembled and served fresh for ideal texture.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce separating upon reheating.

What kind of cream should I use?

Heavy cream works best for a rich, smooth sauce.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can use a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Does this recipe work with plant-based alternatives?

You can use plant-based cream and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version, though flavor and texture may vary.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With creamy garlic sauce, juicy chicken, and tender pasta, it’s the kind of recipe that’s both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party-worthy. Whip it up once and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.