If you’re looking for a soul-warming meal that wraps you in comfort and delivers restaurant-worthy flavor in every bite, you absolutely must try Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This rich, velvety pasta dish combines tender bites of seasoned chicken, a luxuriously creamy garlic sauce, and plenty of bold Parmesan, all coming together with just the right amount of Italian flair. It’s the kind of recipe you reach for on busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any moment that calls for something deeply satisfying and joyfully simple.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in its handful of ingredients—each one playing a crucial role in creating the perfect bite. From juicy chicken pieces to fragrant garlic and lush cream, every element brings a special flavor, texture, or touch of color to this dish.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces, these provide the protein and soak up the sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil: Adds a subtle, fruity richness and helps brown the chicken to perfection.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the entire dish with irresistible aroma and flavor—never underestimate its power!
Chicken Broth: The flavorful base that cooks the pasta and lends depth to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This is the secret to that luscious, creamy texture that makes every twirl of pasta so addictive.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts right in, adding a nutty, salty punch you’ll crave.
Pasta: Go with penne or fettuccine; the sauce clings to every shape so each mouthful is decadent.
Italian Seasoning: Brings dried herbs together to echo the flavors of your favorite Italian meals.
Salt: Enhances every ingredient and ties the flavors together.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked if possible for just the right amount of gentle heat.
Baby Spinach (optional): Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost without overpowering things.
Fresh Parsley: For that bright, herby finish that makes the dish pop visually and on the palate.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces and let them sizzle away, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 5 to 6 minutes. Removing the chicken once it’s done keeps it perfectly tender as you prepare the sauce. Set it aside and get ready for the ultimate flavor-building step!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

With your chicken resting, lower the heat to medium and toss in the minced garlic. Just 30 seconds here is enough—wait for the aroma to hit you and the garlic to turn fragrant but not brown. This simple move sets the stage for a deeply savory sauce, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Base

Now comes the magical part. Add the uncooked pasta straight into the skillet, followed by chicken broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, making sure the pasta is nestled in the liquid. Bring it all up to a gentle simmer—this allows the pasta to cook and absorb those gorgeous flavors right from the start.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Cover your skillet and let the pasta do its thing for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’re looking for the pasta to be just tender, with most of the liquid absorbed but a little saucy goodness left in the pan for creaminess.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Creaminess

Time for the Parmesan! Sprinkle it over the pasta, and stir until it melts fully, transforming the dish into that signature creamy, cheesy masterpiece. The sauce should now coat every piece of chicken and every strand or tube of pasta with indulgent flavor.

Step 6: Finish with Chicken and Spinach

Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet and add the baby spinach if you like. Gently stir and let everything heat through for another minute or two, just until the spinach wilts and the chicken is warmed. Now, you’re ready to plate up your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For that final restaurant-style flourish, top each serving with a shower of freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Not only does this add bright color and a herby scent, but it also makes every plate look totally irresistible.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with warm, crusty garlic bread (soak up that sauce!) and a crisp, green salad dressed simply. Roasted vegetables or a small bowl of olives also complement the creamy, savory aspects of this pasta beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls with a twist of black pepper on top for a bistro vibe, or pile it high in a large family-style platter for everyone to dig in. You can even portion into ramekins and top with breadcrumbs for a mini pasta bake that’s perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll stay creamy and delicious for up to three days. The flavors meld overnight, making each reheated bite just as fantastic.

Freezing

To freeze, simply portion the cooled Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll keep for up to two months. Just note that the creamy sauce can separate slightly after thawing, but a gentle reheat and a splash of extra cream will bring it back to its original glory.

Reheating

For best results, warm leftovers in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a bit more cream or broth as needed to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave individual servings in short bursts, stirring to distribute the heat evenly and preserve that dreamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are classic, any shape that holds sauce well—like rotini or rigatoni—will give you a delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta experience.

What’s the best way to make this dish gluten-free?

Just substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta—the sauce and cooking method stay exactly the same. You’ll still get all the creamy, cheesy flavors you love.

Can I add vegetables besides spinach?

Definitely! Try tossing in sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra bursts of flavor and color. The creamy sauce is a great backdrop for all kinds of veggies.

How can I make the sauce even richer?

For extra decadence, add a splash of white wine to the pan after sautéing the garlic, or mix in a bit more Parmesan cheese. Stirring in a tablespoon of butter with the cream is another sure way to elevate the sauce.

Can I make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

You can! Cook the pasta just until al dente, assemble without the spinach and parsley, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat gently and add the spinach and garnishes right before serving for the best texture and color.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to resist a bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—the kind of dish that brings big smiles and happy sighs with every forkful. Give it a try the next time you crave comfort food with a little gourmet sparkle, and don’t forget to share it with those you love!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful dish of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that is quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

4 cloves garlic (minced)
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta (uncooked)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, seasonings, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until pasta is tender.
Finish the Dish: Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy. Add back the chicken and spinach if using. Cook until heated through. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.