If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances creamy, savory, and garlicky flavors, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is going to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in Italian seasoning and paprika, paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused parmesan cream sauce. This recipe brings together simple ingredients with bold flavors, creating a comforting, satisfying meal that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe relies on straightforward, essential ingredients that each play a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the richness of butter and parmesan to the aromatic punch of garlic and onion, every element enhances the dish perfectly.
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the aromatics, these oils add subtle fruitiness and help achieve a golden sear.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or pounded to ½” thickness to ensure juicy, even cooking.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that infuses the chicken with warm, savory notes.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken crust.
- Salt & pepper to taste: The must-have seasoning for enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps sauté the onion and garlic for that creamy base.
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup): Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe, delivering that irresistible savory punch.
- 8 oz dry penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully; use normal, gluten-free, or a protein pasta based on preference.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and a touch of savoriness to cook the pasta right in the sauce.
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce lending nutty, salty, umami richness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky smooth and indulgent.
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley: Freshens the dish and adds a nice pop of green color.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
First, pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks well and the chicken crisps up nicely when cooked. Rub each side generously with a mix of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat the avocado or olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This technique seals in the juices, giving you tender, flavorful chicken every time. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the pasta.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta Base
In the same skillet, add butter along with diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma — this step builds the flavor foundation of your dish. Next, pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken, which adds rich flavor. Add the dry penne pasta directly to the skillet, cover it, and let cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al-dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
Step 3: Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. As you mix, the cheese will melt into the cream and broth, thickening into a creamy sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces, add it back to the skillet, and toss everything together so the flavors meld beautifully. This final step is where the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe truly comes alive — a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels both luxurious and homey.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe, sprinkle a little extra freshly chopped parsley or freshly grated parmesan right before serving. A crack of black pepper enhances both appearance and flavor. If you want a bit of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides that won’t compete with its rich flavor. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add texture and balance. Garlic bread or a simple baguette also work beautifully for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the chicken slices atop a generous bed of the creamy pasta, then drizzle a little extra cream sauce over the chicken for added visual appeal. Garnish with sprigs of fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color. For a family-style meal, serve everything in a large skillet or pasta bowl right at the table to encourage casual, comforting dining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce tends to thicken in the fridge, so don’t worry if it looks a little less saucy — it will loosen up nicely when reheated.
Freezing
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure the sauce stays creamy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers slowly in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has become too thick. Stir gently to bring everything back to that creamy perfection you enjoyed fresh. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended for its shape and ability to hold sauce well, you can substitute with other pasta types like fusilli, rigatoni, or even gluten-free varieties depending on your preference or dietary needs.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap out the parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will be a bit different but still delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the seasoning mixture for the chicken or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce near the end of cooking. You can adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
What is the best way to ensure chicken stays juicy?
Pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness and not overcooking it are key. Using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees safe and juicy results. Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain moisture.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time, and store it separately. The sauce and pasta are best made fresh but can be prepared a few hours before serving and then gently reheated.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is truly a comfort food classic with a touch of elegance that’s so easy to make. The creamy sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and the delightful garlicky parmesan flavor will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your recipe collection—you might just find it becomes a favorite for busy nights and special dinners alike!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A savory and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken breast with perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich garlic cream sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting meal is ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 4–6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub both sides of the chicken evenly with the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Pasta: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of avocado or olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they are tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the dry penne pasta to the pan, cover it with a lid, and cook for approximately 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Finish the Dish: Lower the heat and stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley into the pasta until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and add them back into the pan with the pasta. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and warm through. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free or protein-based varieties to suit dietary needs.
- Butterflying or pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference for a milder or more robust garlic flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
