Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces, rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and plenty of Parmesan cheese tossed with pasta. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you crave something indulgent yet easy to make.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breastspastasuch as fettuccine or linguineolive oilbuttergarlicclovesheavy creamchicken brothParmesan cheesesaltblack pepperItalian seasoningparsley for garnish

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add chicken breasts and cook until golden and fully cooked through, then remove and slice.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan.

Simmer the sauce until slightly thickened, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Return sliced chicken to the pan along with the cooked pasta, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap the chicken breast for shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist.

Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Incorporate red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken; just add it when combining the pasta and sauce.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

What pasta works best?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well, but any pasta you prefer can be used.

Can I make it without cream?

You can substitute with a mixture of milk and a bit of flour for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and keep the heat moderate to prevent curdling.

Can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can try using coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, broccoli, peas, or spinach are great additions.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer a little longer or add a slurry of cornstarch and water if needed.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining. With its irresistible sauce and customizable ingredients, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation.