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.
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.
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