Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of comforting, indulgent dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. With tender bites of chicken, al dente pasta, and a silky garlic-parmesan cream sauce, this recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want a home-cooked meal. I once swapped in penne for fettuccine and added a handful of spinach right at the end—it made the dish extra colorful and added a touch of freshness without changing the creamy flavor. This recipe is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and simple to make, whether you are serving your family or entertaining friends. One bite of that velvety garlic sauce clinging to pasta and chicken, and you will understand why this dish quickly becomes a household favorite.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Easy 30-Minute Dinner!)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A quick and comforting pasta dish with tender chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the creamy garlic sauce.
Pasta – Any shape works, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the sauce beautifully.
Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics.
Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic – The heart of the flavor, providing a bold and aromatic base.
Heavy cream – Creates the velvety texture of the sauce, making it indulgent and smooth.
Chicken broth – Balances the richness of the cream while deepening the savory flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan melts into the sauce for nutty, cheesy goodness.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings warmth and balance to the dish.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, but they add a subtle heat that complements the creaminess.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and sauce.
Fresh parsley – Sprinkled on top for freshness and color.
Directions
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and let rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking until combined. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parmesan cheese, letting the sauce simmer gently until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta, spooning extra sauce over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking requires 20 minutes, making it ready in just 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Microwaving works too, but stirring occasionally will prevent separation. Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces can split when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Bacon Lovers’ Version
Crispy bacon bits stirred into the sauce give a smoky, savory kick.
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Add fresh lemon juice and zest to brighten the creamy sauce.
Herb-Infused Sauce
Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or oregano to enhance the flavor.
Extra Cheesy Pasta
Mix in mozzarella or provolone with parmesan for a cheesier sauce.
Spicy Kick
Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for more heat.
Gluten-Free Pasta
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
Vegetarian Option
Skip the chicken and load the pasta with roasted vegetables instead.
Low-Carb Version
Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash while keeping the creamy sauce.
Grilled Chicken Upgrade
Use grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a smoky, charred flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
What pasta works best with this sauce?
Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make the sauce lighter?
Yes, substitute half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less creamy.
How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling once the cream is added.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated melts better, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add vegetables.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make it up to a day ahead and reheat gently before tossing with pasta.
What sides go well with this pasta?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add extra parmesan to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of white wine before the broth adds depth and acidity.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of indulgence and simplicity. With a silky sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers big flavors in just 30 minutes. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized with vegetables, spices, or different cheeses, making it a reliable choice for both busy weeknights and dinner parties. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a place in your regular meal rotation.
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