Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Name: Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips); 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: November 1, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a hearty main course or pair it with a salad and bread for an impressive dinner spread.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: This is essential for searing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
Pot for boiling pasta: A good pot ensures even cooking of your pasta to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Ingredients

This creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Tender chicken is seared to perfection, then tossed with al dente pasta in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce. A satisfying dinner that feels gourmet but comes together easily on a busy night.

For the Pasta

8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta

For the Chicken

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth (to thin sauce if needed)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season the chicken strips with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice into pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Next, sprinkle flour over the garlic mixture and stir to form a roux. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes before slowly whisking in heavy cream. Allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with red pepper flakes if using. If your sauce appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach desired consistency.

Finally, return sliced chicken and cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in that creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving hot. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Serving this Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit your dining preferences. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance the meal and impress your guests.

Pair with a Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic choice, this salad’s crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the pasta beautifully.
Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

Add Garlic Bread

Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: For an indulgent twist, top garlic bread with mozzarella cheese before baking.

Include Wine Pairing

Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay enhances the creamy flavors of the pasta.
Pinot Grigio: This light white wine adds a refreshing note that balances the richness of the dish.

Garnish Creatively

Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness to your plate.
Extra Parmesan: Offering additional grated cheese at the table allows guests to customize their servings.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. Each one will elevate your cooking process and enhance the final dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce and prevents it from becoming mushy.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Season Adequately: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with this rich dish.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch and vibrant color contrast.
Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus adds elegance to your dinner plate.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens offers freshness that offsets the creaminess of the pasta.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that complements the main dish.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add smokiness and depth to your meal.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle makes for a flavorful starter or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can lead to bland pasta. Always season your chicken well before cooking.
Overcooking the pasta: If you overcook the pasta, it can become mushy and lose its texture. Always cook it until al dente as per package instructions.
Not adjusting sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, it may clump together. Always have chicken broth on hand to thin it out if needed.
Ignoring garlic cooking time: Cooking garlic for too long can make it bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant for the best flavor.
Using low-quality cheese: Using pre-grated cheese can affect the creaminess of your sauce. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to keep the pasta fresh and prevent drying out.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish with a splash of cream or broth, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a little liquid, cover loosely, and microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until heated.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken and al dente pasta coated in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne works great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. For added protein, consider including shrimp or sausage alongside the chicken.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream and use less cheese if you want a lighter option while still enjoying great flavors.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. These sides complement the creamy pasta without overwhelming its flavors.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Don’t hesitate to try customizing it with your favorite veggies or proteins!

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