These creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta packs rich flavors and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Enjoy the comfort of homemade food with this quick and family-friendly recipe.
There are some nights when you just need something warm and comforting to eat – something that feels like a hug on a plate. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has become a go-to in my home, especially when time is short but hunger is high. The creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, brings everyone together around the dinner table, eagerly digging in. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will be on your regular rotation!
Why This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Will Be Your New Favorite
This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. With just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh chicken, you can whip up a delicious, comforting meal that your family will adore. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, which means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time with the ones you love.
Cooking Up Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli) (or penne/rotini)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for a velvety sauce)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing & thinning)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided use – half for chicken)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook pasta & sear chicken: Start by boiling the pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Before you drain it, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Pat the chicken dry and season it with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp of butter and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until it’s golden and cooked through. Once done, remove it to a plate.
Make garlic- Parmesan sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and, if using, the red pepper flakes. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Next, deglaze the skillet with the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits that add extra flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and the rest of the Italian seasoning; let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese to create a smooth sauce.
Toss & serve: Return the chicken, along with its juices, to the skillet, and add the drained pasta. Gently toss to coat everything in that delicious sauce. If needed, add splashes of the reserved pasta water to achieve a silky consistency. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving immediately.
Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top is always a nice touch, and don’t forget a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner experience!
Storing Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you have any leftovers (which you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Perfect Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting results and flavor. Pre-grated cheese can lead to a grainy texture.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your family’s spice tolerance – skip them for a milder flavor or add more for an extra kick!
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture; this dish doesn’t sit well for long!
Variations to Try with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Feel free to switch up the protein in this recipe. Shrimp or even sautéed vegetables can make for a delightful variation if you’re looking for something different. You can also experiment with different types of pasta; the choices are endless!
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with any short pasta like penne or rotini.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or you can substitute chicken for a leaner cut like turkey.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables or even some white beans for protein. You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for more depth of flavor.
Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta adventure in the kitchen! It’s a warm, comforting meal that your family will love, leaving you all wanting more!