The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week

Why Make This Recipe

The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings and pleases everyone at the table. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. The flavors are comforting and the ingredients are easy to find, ensuring you can whip this up anytime you need a quick and hearty dinner.

How to Make The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast — 2 large, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Twisted pasta (fusilli) — 1 lb (450 g), or penne/rotini
• Unsalted butter — 3 Tbsp, divided
• Fresh garlic, minced — 4–5 cloves
• Heavy cream — 1 ½ cups
• Chicken broth — ½ cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese — 1 cup (freshly grated preferred)
• Italian seasoning — 1 tsp, divided
• Red pepper flakes — ¼ tsp, optional
• Fine salt & black pepper — to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped — 2 Tbsp, for garnish

Directions:

1. Boil pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta until al dente per package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water; drain.

2. Season & sear chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate (keep juices).

3. Build garlic cream base: Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

4. Deglaze & simmer: Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and remaining ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Melt Parmesan: Reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.

6. Combine: Return chicken (and juices) to the skillet. Add drained pasta. Toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is thick, stir in splashes of reserved pasta water until glossy and clinging to the pasta.

7. Finish & serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serve this pasta dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For an extra touch, offer additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who love cheesy flavors.

How to Store The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of searing fresh chicken.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Feel free to add vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, for extra nutrition and color.

Variation

You can easily modify the recipe by using different proteins such as shrimp or turkey. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any shape of pasta you like. Penne or rotini work well, but feel free to try your favorites!

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and add the pasta and protein just before serving.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat according to your taste preferences.

Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Print Recipe

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing and Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast — 2 large, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Twisted pasta (fusilli) — 1 lb (450 g), or penne/rotini
• Unsalted butter — 3 Tbsp, divided
• Fresh garlic, minced — 4–5 cloves
• Heavy cream — 1 ½ cups
• Chicken broth — ½ cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese — 1 cup (freshly grated preferred)
• Italian seasoning — 1 tsp, divided
• Red pepper flakes — ¼ tsp, optional
• Fine salt & black pepper — to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped — 2 Tbsp, for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta until al dente per package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water; drain.
2. Season & sear chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate (keep juices).
3. Build garlic cream base: Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
4. Deglaze & simmer: Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and remaining ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Melt Parmesan: Reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.
6. Combine: Return chicken (and juices) to the skillet. Add drained pasta. Toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is thick, stir in splashes of reserved pasta water until glossy and clinging to the pasta.
7. Finish & serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra touch, offer additional grated Parmesan on the side. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken pasta, garlic Parmesan, easy dinner, Italian recipe