Skip to Content

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

By: Author Jenna Margot

Posted on

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Hey y'all! If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. It's creamy, rich, and loaded with savory flavors from juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and a generous shower of Parmesan cheese. Whether you're cooking for a cozy weeknight, a festive family gathering, or just want something truly delicious, this pasta always hits the spot. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Creamy, cheesy sauce clings to every noodle for ultimate flavor.
  • Family-friendly and loved by even picky eaters.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you already have on hand.
  • Easily customizable with veggies or different proteins.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or favorite short pasta)
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 5 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (80 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add penne and cook according to package instructions (usually 10-11 minutes), until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to skillet.
  3. Sauté chicken for 6-8 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
  4. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add butter and reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (don't burn it!).
  3. Pour in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.
  3. Top with more Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot!

Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Success

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor—pre-shredded varieties may clump (learn why fresh cheese matters).
  • Don't skip reserving pasta water! It adds silkiness and helps the sauce cling to noodles.
  • Control the heat when sautéing garlic to avoid bitterness (tips for perfect garlic sauté).
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations

  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli for a hearty meatless twist.
  • Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
  • Lightened Up: Use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream and add extra veggies.

Required Equipment for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander for draining pasta

Storage Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Not freezer-friendly as the cream sauce may separate and become grainy.

Serving Recommendations & Perfect Pairings

  • Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with homemade garlic bread or focaccia for an irresistible carb combo.
  • Enjoy with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Pro Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Let chicken rest before slicing to keep juices locked in (why resting is crucial).
  • For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
  • Always taste and season the sauce before combining with pasta and chicken for best results.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta FAQ

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Just shred and add at the end to heat through.
  • Can I substitute the cream? Yes, half-and-half or even evaporated milk can work, though the sauce will be slightly lighter.
  • What’s the best type of pasta for this dish? Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well to catch the creamy sauce.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Yields: 4 servings

★★★★★ 4.80 from 87 ratings

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

yield: 4 servings
prep: 15 mins
cook: 25 mins
total: 40 mins
A flavorful Italian-inspired pasta dish featuring tender chicken, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for a comforting and easy dinner.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1
    Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. 3
    In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. 4
    Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  5. 5
    Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy.
  6. 6
    Return cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 640 calcal
Protein: 40 gg
Fat: 26 gg
Saturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Potassium: 0mg
Total Carbs: 61 gg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Vitamin A: 0
Vitamin C: 0mg
Calcium: 0mg
Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Please consider Pinning it!!