If you are craving a dish that brings together the richness of garlic, the comforting creaminess of Parmesan cheese, and tender chicken tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a meal that’s decadent yet quick enough for a weeknight, boasting a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta and every juicy bite of chicken. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm, familiar hug but also impresses with its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and accessible, each playing an essential role in bringing out the dish’s creamy, garlicky, and savory personality. From the tender chicken to the aromatic garlic, every component harmonizes perfectly.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a flavorful base to cook the chicken with a slight fruity richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star ingredient that adds that irresistible punch of flavor.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth and velvety sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and sharp, nutty flavor essential to this Parmesan chicken pasta.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with fragrant herbs for an authentic taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives just the right amount of subtle spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Adds silkiness and helps bind the sauce to the pasta perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and to mellow the garlic.
- Optional: chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and extra cheesy goodness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes for al dente perfection. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water—that secret ingredient will help your sauce reach the perfect creamy consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat your olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in those bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook them for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re gloriously golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. This step locks in moisture so the chicken stays tender in your pasta.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter, then add the minced garlic. Let it cook gently for about a minute until it releases its heavenly aroma without browning. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, then stir in your grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly into a velvety dream.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Now for the magic moment. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with your creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together gently, letting the sauce coat each piece generously. To get the sauce consistency just right, slowly add in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce is perfectly smooth and creamy.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing isn’t just for looks here; chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh note that beautifully contrasts the richness of the sauce. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top to boost that cheesy, savory flavor and give every bite that irresistible finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green side salad, something light and tangy like a lemon vinaigrette to balance out the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are also fantastic to scoop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, rustic presentation. Or plate it with a colorful sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of good quality olive oil for a restaurant-style finish that feels special when sharing with friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead meal you’ll look forward to reheating.
Freezing
Freezing the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is possible but not recommended because the texture of the cream sauce can change after thawing. If you do freeze it, cool completely first, then pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When reheating, warm gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce and restore its creamy texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne works best for soaking up the creamy sauce, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes like rigatoni, bowties, or even spaghetti for a little variation.
Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to lighten things up, but be aware the sauce will be a bit thinner and less rich. Skimming some butter can help maintain the luscious mouthfeel.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are delicious additions that bring color, texture, and extra layers of flavor to the recipe.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Cook the sauce gently and avoid boiling it vigorously. Stir frequently and add the chicken and pasta only after the sauce has thickened slightly to maintain that creamy consistency.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing taste or texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and elegance to your dining table with minimal fuss. Its rich, creamy sauce balanced with savory chicken and perfectly cooked pasta will have you coming back for seconds and impressing anyone lucky enough to share it. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a beloved favorite in your own kitchen!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish combining tender chicken pieces with a velvety garlic cream sauce and perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne pasta. Infused with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, this recipe delivers a luscious, comforting meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set drained pasta aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your preferred level of creaminess in the sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta warm. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra flavor and nutrition, try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to make a lighter sauce, but expect it to be less thick and creamy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on your Parmesan cheese’s saltiness.
