As I hurried through my kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of sizzling garlic filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian trattoria. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a quick dinner that embodies comfort and satisfaction in under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce blends beautifully with tender chicken and fragrant garlic, creating a dish that pleases every palate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—use gluten-free pasta or throw in your favorite veggies for a delightful twist. With minimal cleanup, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave homemade goodness. Ready to discover how simple and delicious this comforting plate can be? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Pasta Recipe a Winner? Quick and Easy: You can whip up this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Flavor Bomb: The rich combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and Parmesan brings mouthwatering depth to every bite, ensuring your taste buds are satisfied. Versatile Options: Easily adapt the recipe by using gluten-free pasta or adding seasonal veggies for a personal touch. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of extensive washing up. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, becoming a beloved favorite that you’ll want to cook again and again. Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Fresh, boneless, skinless breasts work best for a juicy, tender bite. • Salt and Pepper – Don’t skip this essential seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences. For the Sauce • Olive Oil & Butter – Sauté the chicken in this mix; butter adds a touch of richness, but you can use olive oil alone for a lighter, dairy-free option. • Fresh Garlic – Minced garlic brings robust flavor; fresh is key to elevating this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta dish. • Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – This ingredient creates that signature creamy sauce; substitute with cashew cream for a dairy-free variation. • Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – A must-have for that cheesy goodness and thickness in your sauce; nutritional yeast works for a vegan option. For the Pasta • Pasta – Any shape like fettuccine, penne, or farfalle works; just remember to cook it al dente for the perfect texture. For the Garnish • Parsley or Basil – These fresh herbs add a pop of color and flavor; feel free to sprinkle some over the top for an appealing finish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Step 1: Prepare Chicken Start by seasoning fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, carefully place the seasoned chicken into the skillet. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing. Step 2: Sauté Garlic In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. This step enhances the flavor of your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, so keep an eye on it as you prepare for the next phase. Step 3: Make Sauce Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring continuously. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Next, add in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping the delicate garlic essence intact. Step 4: Cook Pasta While preparing the sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta well. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce consistency later, ensuring your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfectly creamy. Step 5: Combine Return the sliced chicken to the skillet filled with the cheesy garlic sauce. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring until you reach the desired creaminess and consistency. Step 6: Serve To finish, plate your delightful Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic touch. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness. Serve immediately while warm to enjoy the full, comforting flavors of this dish—perfect for any busy weeknight! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. Airtight Storage: Make sure to use airtight containers for both fridge and freezer storage to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor. Reheating Tips: When reheating, adding a little extra heavy cream can help restore the creaminess of the sauce, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the first. Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Variations Feel free to take these ideas and make this creamy dish your own, adding your favorite flavors and textures! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options like brown rice or chickpea pasta for a deliciously inclusive meal. Veggie-Packed: Toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and vibrant colors. Their freshness will brighten the dish! Cheese Swaps: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or a mixture of Italian cheeses to create unique flavors in your sauce. Each cheese brings a distinctive twist! Heat it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh lemon zest for a lively brightness that cuts through the creaminess. It’s all about personal taste! Protein Variety: Swap chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms to mix things up—both options add a delightful touch of flavor and texture. Herb Flavors: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for a fragrant and flavorful lift that stands out beautifully. Richness Boost: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for an extra creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Indulge in that lusciousness! Nutty Texture: Toast some pine nuts and add them to the pasta just before serving for a fantastic crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the dish. With these variations, you can create a dish that perfectly fits your taste—making your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta even more special and unforgettable! Make Ahead Options Preparing Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time is an excellent way to save time on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor! You can season and cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the creamy garlic sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just be sure to let it cool before storing. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low heat while you cook the pasta according to package instructions. Finally, combine everything in the skillet, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to achieve that luscious consistency. This way, your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta remains just as delicious as when you first prepared it! Expert Tips for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Don’t Rush the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cook thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s juicy and safe to eat. Watch the Garlic Carefully: Sauté garlic until fragrant, but keep a close eye to avoid burning; burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Adjust Sauce Consistency: Reserve pasta water to help achieve your desired sauce thickness; start with a little and add more if needed for creaminess. Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, consider folding in spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers into the sauce—making your meal even heartier. Season to Taste: Always taste your sauce before serving; a little extra salt or pepper can elevate the overall flavor of the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. What to Serve with Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Complement your culinary creation with delightful additions that enhance the overall experience and satisfy every palate. Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy and buttery, this classic side soaks up every drop of creamy sauce, making each bite even more indulgent. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens and vibrant veggies provides a light contrast to the rich pasta, adding a refreshing crunch with each forkful. Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini that are roasted to perfection, introducing earthy flavors and luscious textures to your meal. Steamed Broccoli: Simply steamed, this healthy side dish adds a lovely green pop and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce for a wholesome feast. Lemon Garlic Shrimp: For an elevated twist, serve the pasta alongside succulent shrimp sautéed in lemon and garlic, which brightens up the dish and adds protein. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully, enhancing the meal with crisp acidity and a touch of fruitiness. Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse that delights your guests while balancing the flavors of your delicious Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, as they cook quickly and remain juicy. Make sure to avoid using frozen chicken, as it won’t sear properly and can result in a less flavorful dish. How should I store leftovers of the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the sauce has thickened, a little splash of cream can bring back its glorious creaminess! Can I freeze Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Yes, you can freeze this dish! Pack the cooled Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. Reheat it in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce for that creamy texture. What do I do if my sauce is too thick? Very! If you find yourself with a thick sauce, don’t fret! Simply add a little reserved pasta water gradually while stirring, until you reach the desired creamy consistency. This starchy water can make all the difference in achieving that smooth sauce. Are there any dietary considerations for this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Absolutely! This recipe is super adaptable. For a gluten-free option, just swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free or vegan modifications, you can replace heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut milk, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. It’s all about making it work for you! How can I select the best garlic for this recipe? When choosing garlic, opt for firm, plump bulbs that are free from dark spots. Fresh garlic has a strong aroma and flavor, which is essential for this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Avoid pre-minced varieties as they often lack freshness and potency, which can affect the overall flavor of your dish. Indulgent Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in Under 30 Minutes Try this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a quick and satisfying dinner that offers creamy sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic garlic in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breasts Fresh, boneless, skinlessto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Sauce1 tablespoon Olive Oil1 tablespoon Butter For richness2-3 cloves Fresh Garlic Minced1 cup Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half Substitute with cashew cream for dairy-free1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for vegan optionFor the Pasta8 ounces Pasta Any shape; cook al denteFor the Garnishto taste Parsley or Basil Fresh, for garnish Equipment skilletpot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSeason chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.In the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant; be careful not to burn it.Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Increase heat slightly to bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.Return sliced chicken to the skillet with sauce, add pasta, and toss to combine. Adjust sauce with reserved pasta water if too thick.Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh herbs and additional parmesan if desired. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg NotesFor added nutrition, consider folding in spinach or broccoli into the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
