When I first stumbled upon Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it was one of those lightbulb moments in the kitchen—like discovering a secret flavor combo that instantly feels like a warm hug. That perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, and pasta that’s just cooked to al dente perfection hooked me immediately. I remember the first bite vividly: rich, comforting, with just enough garlicky punch to keep things interesting. This version of Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta has become a recipe keeper for me because it balances bold flavors with simple ingredients—no intimidating techniques, just pure, approachable deliciousness.
What makes this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta truly special is how simple pantry staples transform into something so cozy and crave-worthy. The creamy chicken pasta texture, combined with the savory parmesan pasta sauce, feels like comfort food but with a fresh, vibrant kick. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make on busy weeknights or anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal.
I love this recipe because it invites creativity: Want to toss in some sautéed spinach or swap out the chicken for shrimp? Go for it! This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is like a canvas that responds beautifully to playful twists. And if you’re the kind of cook who wants bold flavor without fuss, you’ll find this dish a perfect fit.
If you love creamy chicken pasta dishes with a garlicky parmesan sauce, then I’m thrilled to walk you through this recipe adventure. Ready to bring a little bold flavor and warm comfort into your kitchen? Let’s get into the delicious details and make some magic with Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta—your new go-to for easy chicken dinner nights!
Gather These Ingredients:
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta shines with a handful of key ingredients that are easy to find and full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces For tender, juicy bites. I always opt for fresh chicken breasts with good color for the best texture.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape) I love penne for its sauce-hugging shape, but any pasta will do.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter This brings richness to the parmesan pasta sauce.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced Garlic is the star of the garlic parmesan sauce here. Fresh is best for that punch!
- 1 cup heavy cream The key to creamy chicken pasta magic.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated parmesan makes all the difference in flavor and texture of your sauce.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth Adds depth and keeps the sauce silky without being too heavy.
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish Adds freshness and a pop of color—totally optional but I love it!
Want to switch things up in your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, or swap chicken for turkey meatballs if you want a fun twist. If you want to add some greens, toss in a handful of fresh baby spinach or steamed broccoli near the end of cooking.
Look for fresh parmesan in the deli section, or hit the international aisle for authentic imported parmesan cheese. And if you’re short on time, pre-grated parmesan works fine—just keep in mind the freshly grated cheese melts smoother into your garlic parmesan sauce.
I always reach for high-quality butter and fresh garlic because those ingredients bring that signature rich flavor to your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. A quick tip: Mince your garlic finely so it dissolves evenly and gives you that perfect garlic punch without overpowering.
If you’re in a hurry, you can cook your pasta ahead and toss it into the sauce once it’s ready. This recipe comes together quickly once your ingredients are prepped—perfect for an easy chicken dinner that tastes way better than it looks on the clock!
Let’s Make This Happen!
Here’s the down-and-dirty on how to whip up your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Trust me, it’s easier than you think and the creamy chicken pasta payoff is so worth it.
- Season and Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your cut chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Set it aside on a plate while you make your sauce. - Cook Your Pasta
While you’re searing the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining—that starchy water is a gem for adjusting sauce consistency later. - Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet you cooked the chicken (no need to wash), lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Toast the garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! This step is where the magic happens in your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta—those roasted garlic aromas kick the sauce up a notch. - Ready the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken just a bit. - Cheese Time!
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and your sauce turns luxuriously creamy. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This is the moment your garlic parmesan sauce truly shines. - Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add your cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently so your chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta get properly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Finishing Touch
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is ready to plate!
This recipe usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—no complicated steps, just straightforward cooking with big flavors. While it cooks, feel free to check out similar recipes like my garlic parmesan chicken pasta over on MilaBites, or even try a one-pan creamy parmesan garlic mushroom chicken recipe for extra inspiration.
If your sauce seems a bit thin, don’t panic—slowly add more cheese or a little more pasta water and stir until just right. Patience here really pays off! And if your chicken cooks faster than your pasta, you can tent it with foil to keep warm.
Remember, the key to this tasty Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is balancing that garlicky sauce with just the right creamy texture. Once you nail this, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds every time.
Serving Ideas & Pairings!
When it comes to serving this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, I like to keep it simple but satisfying. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette pairs wonderfully—it adds a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy chicken pasta.
For a heartier meal, steamed garlic broccoli or roasted asparagus are fantastic veggie sides that complement the garlic parmesan sauce beautifully. I love serving this easy chicken dinner on weekends when I want comfort food that feels special without extra stress.
Presentation-wise, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil leaves sprinkled on top adds a vibrant, inviting look. Try serving it in a wide shallow bowl so you can scoop up every bit of that creamy sauce with each forkful.
Got leftovers? This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta reheats nicely. Just add a splash of milk or cream when warming it up to revive the creamy sauce. You can also turn leftovers into a fun baked pasta casserole topped with extra parmesan and breadcrumbs for a crispy twist!
This dish is a crowd favorite at family dinners and always gets compliments for its rich garlic parmesan flavor with just the right balance between creamy and light. If you’re curious about different ways to enjoy garlic parmesan dishes, check out a quick Parmesan garlic chicken pasta recipe for quick dinner.
For more versatility, this recipe vibes well with the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan) recipe, which is equally creamy but with the convenience of one-pan cooking. If you want to try a slow cooker approach, The Recipe Critic’s Crockpot Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta is a good one for busy days.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Can I prep this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in advance?
Absolutely! You can cut and season the chicken a day before and keep it refrigerated. Pasta cooks quickly, so I often boil it just before dinner for the freshest texture. If you want to make the whole dish ahead, prepare the sauce and chicken, then toss with pasta when reheating.
What can I use instead of heavy cream in this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Great question! Half-and-half or whole milk can work for a lighter sauce, but expect a thinner texture. Adding a bit more parmesan cheese helps thicken it up. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream is a fun, unexpected twist.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?
Sure! Freshly grated parmesan melts nicer and gives better flavor, but pre-grated is totally fine if that’s what you have on hand.
How do I scale this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe up or down?
Scaling is straightforward—just keep the ratios similar. If you double the chicken and pasta, double the sauce ingredients too. I like to cook the pasta and chicken in batches if making a big batch to keep even cooking.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular, and make sure your chicken broth doesn’t contain gluten. The sauce ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best pasta shape to use for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
I love penne or fettuccine because the sauce clings to their shape, but rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti work perfectly. Pick your favorite and enjoy!
How do I keep the sauce from getting clumpy?
The trick is stirring the parmesan cheese in on lower heat and making sure the cream and broth mixture is warm but not boiling hard. Adding cheese gradually and stirring constantly keeps that garlic parmesan sauce silky smooth.
If you’re curious about flavor-packed chicken pasta, check out my garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for another spin on this classic. Or try this garlic parmesan chicken recipe if you want to focus on the flavors without pasta this time.
My Final Take
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta earned a special spot on MilaBites because it feels like a flavor adventure in comfort food form. It’s that creamy chicken pasta dish I return to when I want simple weeknight magic with big taste. The garlic parmesan sauce is my favorite balance of rich and savory that’s never overwhelming.
My Top Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Tips:
- Use freshly minced garlic and freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t rush the sauce—letting it simmer and thicken gently makes all the difference.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust your sauce consistency for a smooth, silky finish.
I’ve tested playful variations like adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst, stirring in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra aroma, and even swapping chicken for sautéed shrimp to switch up the protein. The version with sautéed mushrooms folded in has become a crowd favorite for dinner parties!
This recipe is special to me because it’s proof that bold flavors and creamy comfort don’t need complicated ingredients or fancy skills. I encourage you to customize and make it your own—it’s a fantastic canvas that invites cooking fun.
If you’re ready to add a new easy chicken dinner to your weeknight rotation, this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is delicious, doable, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Dive in and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
For similar inspiration, be sure to peek at my one-pan creamy parmesan garlic mushroom chicken recipe too—another keeper with lots of flavor and minimal fuss.
Happy cooking, fellow flavor lovers!
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, roasted garlic, and a rich Parmesan sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano cheese.