If you’re craving a deliciously creamy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just one pot, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your new go-to recipe! This comforting dish masterfully melds juicy chicken, savory garlic, and velvety Parmesan cheese, all swirling around perfectly tender pasta. Picture yourself plating up a golden, saucy tangle of noodles, fragrant with Italian herbs and just a touch of heat. It’s a weeknight winner that feels like a special occasion, whether you’re impressing guests or cozying up at home. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will quickly become a staple at your table!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is delightfully simple thanks to a lineup of wholesome, accessible ingredients. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to boost flavor, create a dreamy sauce, and add the right pop of color to your plate.

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces for juicy bites and fast cooking.
Olive oil: This helps brown the chicken and lock in moisture while adding that classic Mediterranean richness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing all the flavors.
Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a pretty blush to your chicken pieces.
Garlic: Four fresh cloves, minced, give the sauce its unmistakable aroma and kick up the flavor.
Chicken broth: This builds depth in the sauce, making every bite richer and more savory.
Heavy cream: For that classic creamy texture, heavy cream is unbeatable here—go all in!
Pasta (penne or rotini): Choose your favorite shape; these both grab onto the delicious sauce beautifully.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best—it melts smoothly and brings nutty, savory notes that define the dish.
Italian seasoning: A little sprinkle gives a lovely herby background without fuss.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a kick of heat that plays nicely with creamy elements.
Unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce to make it even silkier and add a hint of richness.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and a pretty green finish to your plate.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear and Season the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika so every piece is coated with flavor. Sear them in the hot oil for about 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside—don’t worry, all those tasty bits left in the pan will make your sauce even better!

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, drop in the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until it’s fragrant—about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible! This quick step gives your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta its signature aroma and deepens the flavor of the whole dish.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir well to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic starts: the liquids will blend with the garlic and butter, setting the stage for that luscious, restaurant-style sauce your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is known for.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Add your uncooked pasta directly to the simmering sauce. Stir occasionally and cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully. Cooking the pasta in the sauce lets the noodles soak up all the flavors while releasing just enough starch to make the sauce extra creamy—no separate pot needed!

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Seasonings

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat a bit and mix in the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Stir until everything is irresistibly creamy and well-blended. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking—you’re in the home stretch!

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken (and any juices that collected on the plate) to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the chicken in the cheesy, garlicky sauce. Let it warm through for a minute or two, then sprinkle over the chopped parsley for a hit of freshness and color. Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, shower extra grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley over each serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. A light drizzle of good olive oil or a crack of black pepper will elevate that creamy texture and add a beautiful contrast to the golden pasta.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp salads or simple veggie sides. Try a lemony arugula salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans to lighten up the meal and add a bit of crunch—everything you need for a balanced, satisfying plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special presentation, twirl the hot pasta into heaping nests on each plate, then top with slices of chicken and a sprinkle of parsley. You can also spoon it into a big family-style bowl at the table, letting everyone serve themselves. For date night, serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls with a wedge of lemon and warm, crusty bread on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta holds up really well in the fridge. Just transfer it to an airtight container once cooled and store for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but a splash of milk or cream will revive its silky texture when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir in a bit of extra cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Reheating

To bring back that creamy magic, reheat Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently and adding a splash of cream or milk as needed. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to pause and stir halfway through so everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are fantastic at holding onto the sauce, you can use any sturdy pasta shape like fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine. Just keep an eye on cooking times and add a little more broth if needed.

Can I swap the chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—they’ll be extra juicy and flavorful. You might need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time for the chicken pieces.

How can I make this pasta a bit lighter?

If you want a lighter version, try using half-and-half in place of heavy cream and consider reducing the Parmesan cheese slightly. You can also add a big handful of fresh spinach to bulk it up with greens—just stir it in when the pasta finishes cooking.

Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta spicy?

It’s as spicy as you want it to be! The red pepper flakes are totally optional. If you love a little heat, go ahead and sprinkle them in, but if you’re cooking for kids or prefer a milder dish, you can leave them out entirely.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time for entertaining?

Definitely! You can prep the chicken and even cook the pasta and sauce a few hours in advance. Right before serving, gently reheat everything in the skillet and add a little cream to loosen up the sauce, then garnish and serve hot.

Final Thoughts

Your search for the ultimate weeknight comfort food ends with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! I can’t wait for you to taste just how creamy, flavorful, and satisfying this recipe is. Bring your loved ones together, give it a try, and let me know what delicious twists you add—it’s bound to become a new favorite at your table!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a savory and satisfying one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of garlic and herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika

Pasta:

4 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 lb penne or rotini pasta
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in the skillet, add garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, simmer gently.
Cook the Pasta: Add pasta to the skillet, cook uncovered until tender and sauce thickens.
Finish the Dish: Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Return chicken to the skillet, toss to coat. Garnish with parsley.