This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a great crowd-pleaser!

This is the first time I’m sharing this recipe, and I’m so excited to do so!

I really love how this dish brings comfort and deliciousness together in one plate. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has been a favorite in my home for years, and I’ve perfected it to make it easy and flavorful. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe never fails to impress.

I did my best to make this recipe simple yet rich in flavor. I use basic ingredients like garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta.

It’s amazing how a few simple steps can create such a delightful dish that feels restaurant-quality.

I used to serve this pasta dish only on special occasions, but now it has become a weekly staple. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, rich garlic flavor, and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese. It’s cooked in a luscious cream sauce and tossed with your favorite pasta, making it a comforting and filling dish perfect for any occasion.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

Large skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Tongs or a spatula
Knife and cutting board
Grater for Parmesan cheese

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1:

Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually until the sauce thickens.

Step 4:

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything to coat it evenly in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5:

Serve warm, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor. Mince it finely to release its full aroma and richness in the sauce.
Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your chicken for a flavorful base. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when tossed in the hot sauce. This keeps it from becoming mushy.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
Save a cup of pasta water before draining. Adding it to the sauce can adjust the consistency and make it silkier.
For a hint of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce. It balances the creaminess with a slight kick.
Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting. Grating it fresh ensures a creamy texture.

What to Eat with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

I like to pair this creamy pasta dish with a light green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the pasta perfectly. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also excellent sides, ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a heartier meal, you can serve it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus. These sides not only add color to your plate but also complement the flavors of the pasta beautifully.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

Avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. If you must freeze it, do so without the sauce and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to eat.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with Asiago, Romano, or Pecorino cheese for a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your other ingredients, like the seasonings, are gluten-free.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or linguine work well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Vegetables like spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken can save time. Just heat it in the sauce to combine flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and add more vegetables, tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat them. Cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

It pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup like tomato basil.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful dishes. It’s simple to make, satisfying, and versatile enough to serve any occasion. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Recipe by Food by AyakaCourse: MainCuisine: Italian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a great crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything to coat it evenly in the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!