Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 chicken breasts, sliced thin; 1 cup heavy cream or milk; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper to taste; Parsley, for garnish

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If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in creamy, garlicky comfort and dazzles with cheesy, tender chicken, then you’re about to fall in love with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a quick and easy meal that manages to feel indulgent and sumptuous while coming together in just about 30 minutes. Juicy slices of chicken meet silky pasta coated with a luscious sauce that carries the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan perfectly—making it a standout option for any dinner, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a cozy weekend feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays its part in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the tender chicken to the creamy sauce, everything comes together effortlessly with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): Choose your favorite shape to soak up that creamy sauce perfectly.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic for maximum aroma.
2 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that brings warmth and zest to every bite.
2 chicken breasts, sliced thin: Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender.
1 cup heavy cream or milk: Creates the silky base of the sauce; heavy cream makes it ultra creamy.
½ cup grated Parmesan: Brings that signature sharp, nutty cheese flavor essential in this dish.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs adds depth and a hint of rustic charm.
Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Parsley, for garnish: A fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note to finish the dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preparing your pasta according to the package instructions. Whether you choose penne or fettuccine, cooking it until al dente ensures your pasta holds up beautifully when tossed in the sauce. After draining, set it aside while you build the flavorful components of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic in Butter

Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic. As the garlic softens and releases its irresistible aroma, it forms the flavorful foundation of the sauce. Be careful not to brown it too much; you want fragrant, mellow garlic rather than burnt bits.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Introduce the thin chicken slices to your garlicky butter pan and cook until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Thin cuts allow for quick cooking and ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender, absorbing the buttery garlic goodness.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or milk), grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly. This is where your sauce transforms into the luscious, silky coating that defines this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, toss the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce and chicken. Give everything a good stir so every strand and piece of chicken is coated evenly with that delicious sauce. Then, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The image shows a bowl filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is rigatoni, coated in a smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce. The grilled chicken pieces on top are golden brown with a slightly crispy texture. There are small green herb sprinkles scattered over the dish, adding color contrast. A fork is lifting some pasta and chicken from the bowl, showing the creamy texture of the sauce. The bowl is white and it sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the vibrant parsley, a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top creates an irresistible finishing touch. For a zesty twist, a few red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A lemon wedge on the side brightens each bite, cutting through the richness.

Side Dishes

Keep your sides light and fresh to balance the richness of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli pairs wonderfully. Garlic bread is also a classic choice, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family dinner, serve this pasta straight from the skillet to wow everyone at the table. If you want to impress guests, plate individual servings in shallow bowls, garnish with parsley and Parmesan, and add a sprig of fresh basil or thyme. A small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the dish with an elegant glossy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit firm when cold.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, freezing is possible but not optimal for the creamy sauce texture. Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to one month. When thawed, the sauce might separate slightly but can be restored with careful reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth. Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work wonderfully here, any pasta that holds sauce well, like rigatoni or rotini, can be a great choice.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil and the heavy cream and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.

How can I add vegetables to the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic additions. Add them when you cook the chicken or stir in fresh spinach at the end to wilt slightly in the sauce.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Definitely! Just add diced cooked chicken to the sauce at the last step and heat through. It’s a great way to make this recipe even quicker.

What if I want a lighter version of the dish?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and reduce the butter slightly. The sauce will be a bit lighter but still deliciously creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those soul-satisfying meals that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it delivers comforting, restaurant-quality flavors with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this creamy, garlicky, cheesy pasta will become your go-to comfort dinner that you’ll want to make again and again.