Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Comfort in a Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pieces of chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. The cream sauce is made with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream, creating a silky texture that coats every bite. Paired with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish offers a balance of savory flavors and hearty satisfaction. I find this recipe especially handy when I need something cozy and filling, but still quick to make. The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or switch up the pasta shape to keep it exciting.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – Lean and versatile, chicken breasts work well here. Cut into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking.

Pasta – Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work. Choose a pasta that holds sauce well.

Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken, adding richness and flavor.

Butter – Adds depth to the sauce and enhances the creaminess.

Garlic cloves – The star of the sauce, giving it a robust and aromatic flavor.

Heavy cream – Creates the luscious, creamy base for the sauce.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it a salty, nutty flavor.

Chicken broth – Lightens the sauce slightly and adds savory depth.

Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.

Red chili flakes (optional) – For a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess.

Parsley – Fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the finished dish.

Directions

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken pieces for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, cooking around 25 minutes. Total time: approximately 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creaminess. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce can separate.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetable Boost – Add spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and texture.

Cheese Lovers’ Twist – Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for an even richer sauce.

Herb Infusion – Add fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for aromatic depth.

Spicy Kick – Increase chili flakes or add a spoon of chili paste for heat.

Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for dietary needs.

Lightened-Up Version – Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to reduce richness.

Seafood Variation – Swap chicken for shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist.

Baked Pasta – Transfer everything into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Low-Carb Version – Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

One-Pot Shortcut – Cook pasta directly in the sauce with broth for fewer dishes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs stay juicier and add more flavor.

Do I need fresh Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce superior flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, you can use milk and thicken with a cornstarch slurry, though the sauce will be lighter.

How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Whisk the cheese in slowly over low heat to ensure smooth melting.

What type of pasta works best?

Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine are all excellent choices.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat and toss with pasta before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Not recommended, as cream sauces tend to separate when thawed.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, simply omit the chili flakes for a milder flavor.

How can I make it healthier?

Use light cream, whole wheat pasta, and add extra vegetables.

What sides go well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent pairings.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The flexibility of the recipe allows you to adapt it to your tastes, whether you prefer it extra cheesy, loaded with veggies, or spiced up with chili flakes. Quick to make and always satisfying, this pasta dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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