Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish packed with flavor from tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for weeknight dinners, combining simple ingredients into a satisfying and indulgent pasta dish that the whole family will love.

ingredients

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

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
olive oil
salt
black pepper
garlic (minced)
chicken broth
heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
parsley (for garnish, optional)

directions

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and black pepper.

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally.

Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir to combine.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add spinach or broccoli to the sauce for extra veggies.
Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
Add crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.
Top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then broil briefly for a crispy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing due to the cream-based sauce separating when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just add it after the pasta is cooked and heat through.

What pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne or rotini works great, but long pasta like fettuccine also pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

Is fresh Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has more flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

How do I avoid curdling the sauce?

Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, sauté them with the garlic for an earthy addition.

Can I make it ahead?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the chicken and garlic ahead to save time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though flavor and texture will vary.

What herbs go well with this?

Basil, thyme, or oregano can be added for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or feeding a hungry family, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Enjoy the perfect balance of garlic, cheese, and tender chicken all in one hearty bowl.

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