Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 lb (450 g) twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini); 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is preferred); 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Fine salt & black pepper, to taste; 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Indulge in the Creamy Goodness

I’ve been on the hunt for a pasta dish that not only satisfies cravings but also impresses family and friends, and this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta delivers every time. It’s the kind of dish you whip up after a long day at work or make for a cozy weekend dinner. With tender chicken, twirly pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce, it’s no wonder this meal earns rave reviews. The combination of garlic and Parmesan brings an exquisite flavor that’s nothing short of addictive.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why should this dish become a staple in your kitchen? Let me share a few standout reasons. First, it’s unbelievably quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table in under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce is rich without being overwhelming, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, as you can find most ingredients in your pantry or at a local grocery store.

“This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta has officially become a weekly tradition in our house. It’s easy to make and everyone cleans their plates!”

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Let’s walk through the process together. This recipe is straightforward and fun, perfect for cooks of all levels. You’ll be boiling pasta while searing chicken and creating that luscious garlic cream sauce all at once. Can you picture it? Let’s break it down!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 lb (450 g) twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is preferred)
1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fine salt & black pepper, to taste
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Notes

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk, keeping in mind that you might lose a little creaminess.

Step-by-Step Directions

Boil pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
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Season & sear chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp of butter and sear the chicken, cooking for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate, keeping the juices in the pan.
Build garlic cream base: Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30–60 seconds, or until fragrant.
Deglaze & simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up those flavorful browned bits. Then stir in the heavy cream and additional ½ tsp of Italian seasoning, simmering gently for about 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Melt Parmesan: Lower the heat further and gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce is velvety smooth.
Combine: Return the chicken (along with any juices) to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta, mixing until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in splashes of the reserved pasta water to achieve a glossy finish.
Finish & serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Serving

You can elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy pasta with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread. For a delightful contrast, consider serving sautéed green beans or seasoned asparagus alongside. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top for a finishing touch!

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish (without greens) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Pro Chef Tips

Sear for Flavor: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice golden crust that enhances flavor.
Herbs Matter: Fresh herbs can significantly improve the meal’s flavor profile. If you have them on hand, consider using fresh parsley or even basil.
Cheese Trick: To prevent clumping, always add grated cheese gradually while stirring the sauce.

Creative Twists

To switch things up, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a splash of hot sauce can spice things up. Alternatively, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

FAQ

How long does it take to make this dish?

You’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to toss in the pasta.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce and tender pasta are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta to keep this dish accessible for everyone.

Ready to enjoy the creamy goodness of this chicken pasta? It won’t be long before you find yourself making it every week!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None