Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

There’s nothing quite like a comforting plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a dish that perfectly blends creamy, cheesy goodness with juicy chicken and aromatic garlic. This recipe is a personal favorite, inspired by my grandmother’s classic Italian recipes but with a modern American twist.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this pasta recipe is easy to make, incredibly delicious, and suitable for any season. With the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, the warmth of garlic, and perfectly seasoned chicken, this dish will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Creamy & Cheesy: A luscious garlic Parmesan sauce coats every bite.
• Versatile: Works with various pasta types and protein options.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients & Substitutions

This recipe of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, uses simple pantry staples, but I’ll also suggest some alternatives to fit your preferences.

Main Ingredients:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (or use chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work best)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions:

• Vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms add depth.
• Protein Swap: Shrimp or tofu can replace chicken.
• Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of cream cheese for a thicker sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any flavorful bits from the pan.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick (optional).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.
3. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you want to make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, paying attention to small details can take your dish from good to restaurant-quality. Many home cooks run into issues like watery sauce, clumpy cheese, or a lack of flavor. To avoid these pitfalls and achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful pasta, follow these expert tips.

Prevent Watery Sauce: Use heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and simmer uncovered. Toss pasta in sauce immediately for even coating.

Smooth Melting Cheese: Add freshly grated Parmesan off heat, stirring gradually to prevent clumps.

Perfect Sauce Consistency: Thin it with pasta water or broth, thicken with Parmesan or extra simmering. For more creaminess, add butter or cream cheese.

Boost Flavor: Spice it up with red pepper flakes, umami-rich mushrooms, or roasted garlic. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a fresh touch.

Variations and Substitutions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is. Whether you’re avoiding gluten, following a low-carb diet, or simply want to switch up the flavors, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish. Below are some of the best variations and substitutions to fit your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: Use chickpea, rice, or lentil pasta. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and butter for olive oil. Try nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.

Low-Carb/Keto: Replace pasta with zoodles or shirataki noodles. Stick to heavy cream and Parmesan, and add protein like chicken, shrimp, or bacon.

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas. Add spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.

Spicy Twist: Use Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or swap chicken for spicy sausage.

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it a satisfying meal on its own. However, pairing it with the right side dishes and beverages can take your dining experience to the next level. Whether you’re preparing this pasta for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these pairings will boost every bite.

Salad: A fresh Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.

Bread: Garlic bread or focaccia for soaking up the sauce.

Beverages: there are plenty of refreshing options to enjoy with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, like Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water, Iced Herbal Tea (Lemon or Mint), Fresh Lemonade, Cucumber and Mint Infused Water.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’ve made a big batch of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll want to store and reheat it properly to maintain its creamy, delicious texture. Below, we’ll cover the best ways to keep leftovers fresh, whether you’re refrigerating, freezing, or reheating them.

Refrigerating: Let pasta cool, store in an airtight container, and refrigerate within 2 hours. Enjoy within 3-4 days.

Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months in a sealed container. Add extra cream when reheating for better texture.

Reheating:

• Stovetop (Best): Heat with milk or broth over low heat, stirring often.
• Microwave (Quickest): Cover with a damp paper towel, heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Oven (For Large Portions): Bake at 350°F, covered, with added cream or broth for moisture.

Store properly and reheat with care to keep Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta creamy and delicious!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Chaynez
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken, rich garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy one-pan meal is ready in just 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (or use chicken thighs for extra juiciness)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work best)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions:

• Vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms add depth.
• Protein Swap: Shrimp or tofu can replace chicken.
• Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of cream cheese for a thicker sauce.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in olive oil for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C). Set aside, covered.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add chicken broth, scraping the pan. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 4: Combine Everything
Toss pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Slice chicken, place on top, and garnish with parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic make a huge difference.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente texture holds the sauce better.
✔ Let the Chicken Rest: This keeps it juicy before slicing.
✔ Adjust the Sauce Consistency: Add more pasta water if too thick or more cheese if too thin.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, one-pan pasta, easy pasta recipes

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Conclusion: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. By using freshly grated Parmesan, properly seasoned chicken, and the right pasta, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Remember to simmer the sauce until thick, toss the pasta immediately, and reheat leftovers with a splash of cream to keep it delicious.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to make this irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at home! Whether you’re cooking for your family or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. If you try it, let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and feedback in the comments or tag us on social media. Enjoy your homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, and happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration, check out Chaynez Recipes, where you’ll find all of our latest recipes and updates in one place. From savory soups to delectable desserts, there’s something for every palate.