Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor); 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The tender chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent without being overly heavy. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and a touch of cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta, making every bite full of flavor. It’s a comforting meal that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need it later.
Cook the chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Make the garlic Parmesan sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the cream to a simmer, and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder (if using), and continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the pasta and chicken:
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in bowls or plates. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Add vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli with the pasta and chicken.
Spicy version: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Use a different protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tofu or chickpeas for a different take on this dish.
Creamier sauce: For an even richer sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or add more butter and Parmesan for extra creaminess.

Storage

Storage: Leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to a creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even ziti work well with this creamy sauce. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Just shred or chop it before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be a little less rich. You can also add a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce while cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then simply heat everything together when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that brings all the flavors you love into one easy-to-make meal. With tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce, it’s the perfect dinner for any night of the week. Quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Enjoy a comforting, indulgent meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!