If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort meal that dazzles both pasta and chicken lovers alike, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is about to take center stage in your kitchen! This gloriously creamy pasta dish brings together juicy chicken, golden garlic, and a velvet-smooth Parmesan sauce—all perfectly intertwined with tender noodles. Each forkful offers that magical trio of savory, cheesy, and garlicky flavors, and this recipe couldn’t be easier or more satisfying, whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner or dishing up for friends on the weekend.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta relies on a small handful of simple ingredients, but each plays a starring role. They create an addictively rich sauce, balance savory and herby notes, and bring gorgeous color and texture to your plate!

Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces for maximum tenderness and easy eating.
Olive Oil: Provides the perfect base for browning the chicken and gives a subtle fruity note.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the boldest, most aromatic flavor—this is the secret heart of the dish!
Heavy Cream: Delivers the creamy, luscious texture everyone loves in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.
Chicken Broth: Adds savoriness without heaviness, keeping the sauce full of flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A handy blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with Mediterranean flair.
Salt: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce to perfection.
Black Pepper: Brightens and sharpens the creamy taste, adding complexity.
Parmesan Cheese: Go for freshly grated Parmesan if you can—melts best and gives that signature nutty finish.
Pasta: Penne or fettuccine are both perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce—pick your favorite shape!
Butter: Adds silkiness and flavor when making the garlic-infused sauce.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of color and freshness to finish off each generous bowl.
Extra Parmesan: Don’t skip that final flourish—it’s what takes this pasta over the top.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until it’s just al dente. This ensures your noodles have that perfect, slight bite and won’t get soggy when tossed in the creamy sauce later on. Drain the pasta and set it aside—you’re on your way!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Cook and stir for 6 to 7 minutes until the chicken turns golden and is cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you make that glorious, garlicky sauce.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about one minute, just until fragrant. This step releases all those rich, mouthwatering aromas—don’t step away from the stove at this point so the garlic doesn’t burn!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking gently to combine with the garlic butter. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 4 to 5 minutes—it should thicken up slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, making sure it melts smoothly into a silky, irresistibly cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Toss Together and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so the noodles and chicken are fully coated in the sauce. Let it all simmer for a minute or two, just to blend the flavors, then remove from heat. Finish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan—get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta absolutely shines with a handful of fresh parsley and a snow-like shower of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving. A little cracked black pepper on top adds a punch, and if you’re feeling bold, a pinch of red pepper flakes delivers lovely warmth.

Side Dishes

While this pasta is hearty enough on its own, it pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette or a side of roasted asparagus. Warm, crusty garlic bread is practically a must for mopping up every last bit of creamy sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party-worthy presentation, twist the pasta into tall nests on each plate, nestle the chicken pieces on top, and finish with plenty of Parmesan and parsley. You can also portion Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in individual gratin dishes and broil for an extra-melty cheese topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue developing overnight, making leftovers just as crave-worthy as the first bite!

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the pasta in tightly sealed freezer containers for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, as this helps the sauce keep its creamy texture.

Reheating

For the creamiest results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce looks too thick. If you’re microwaving, use 50 percent power and stir every minute until hot to avoid overcooking the chicken or separating the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Simply chop or shred cooked chicken and stir it in with the pasta and sauce. It’s a fantastic shortcut when you’re short on time yet still want homemade flavor.

Is there a good substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but be aware it won’t be quite as rich and creamy. If you go with this option, add a little more Parmesan to boost up the body of the sauce.

What pasta shapes work best?

Penne and fettuccine both cuddle up nicely with the sauce, but you can swap in any shape you love—rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti all work here. Just opt for a pasta that holds a creamy sauce well.

Can I add vegetables to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Definitely! Toss in a handful of baby spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli during the last step for a pop of color and a nutritional boost. Mushrooms sautéed with the garlic are another delicious option.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Just sub your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your chicken broth for any hidden wheat ingredients. The rest of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Once you take your first creamy, garlicky bite, you’ll see why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is such a hit. Whether you want a comforting family meal or an impressive dish for friends, give this recipe a try—you’ll want to keep it on repeat!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a decadent and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. This Italian-inspired pasta recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

12 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
Combine and Serve: Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Simmer briefly to meld flavors. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.