A warm aroma fills the kitchen as the creamy sauce begins to bubble and the savory scent of garlic wafts through the air. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a luscious dish that takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Its creamy texture paired with robust flavors ensures a delightful dining experience that everyone will love.
This recipe is ideal for busy families, quick dinner parties, or anyone needing a comforting meal. It can easily be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy sauce perfectly clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a rich, nutty flavor.
- A short cooking time means you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for various pasta shapes.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal.
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 10 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or bow tie; cooked al dente)
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated from block
- 0.5 tsp dried Italian seasoning
For Serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes, optional, for serving
Use fresh Parmesan for best results.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Olive oil can be replaced with butter.
- Heavy cream may be substituted with half-and-half.
- You can use any pasta shape of your choice.
- Fresh parsley can be swapped for basil or chives.
How to Make It
Start cooking by following these simple steps.
Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Set drained pasta aside.
Season and Cook the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook chicken in a single layer for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Incorporate Seasonings
Reduce heat to low. Add Italian seasoning, then whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan in two additions, letting the first batch fully incorporate before adding the second. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss together over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is coated in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Serve Immediately
Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, sauce doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: Use a skillet over low heat for 5 to 7 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t rush the chicken cooking process; allow it to caramelize properly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor and better melting.
- Taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasonings if needed.
- Reserve more pasta water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
- Pair with a fresh Caesar salad for a complete dinner.
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
