Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 8 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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A rich, comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast, creamy Parmesan sauce, and aromatic garlic, this recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The luscious sauce clings to each piece of pasta, making every bite indulgent and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta strikes the right balance of flavors and textures. It’s simple enough for a busy weekday but feels special enough for entertaining. The best part? It comes together quickly with pantry-friendly ingredients, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Olive oil or butter
Garlic cloves, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain.
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet with the sauce. Add the pasta and toss until fully coated.
Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just add it to the sauce at the end to warm through.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are all great choices.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat on medium-low and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good substitutes.

How can I make this spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Broccoli, mushrooms, peas, or asparagus work wonderfully.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, deeply flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers a satisfying meal every time. Its rich sauce and tender chicken create a combination that’s hard to resist, making it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.

Jane