Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Savory & Ready in 30 Minutes

This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a go-to comfort dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something rich, creamy, and completely satisfying. Juicy chicken is seared to golden perfection, then tossed in a silky garlic Parmesan cream sauce and paired with tender pasta — all made in under 30 minutes.

With just a handful of ingredients, this dish brings bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly versatile. Serve it straight from the skillet with crusty bread or a green salad for a quick yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient plays a simple but essential role in building this creamy, savory pasta.

Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Sliced thin or cubed for quicker cooking.

• Seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs to layer flavor into the meat before it ever hits the sauce.

Pasta

• Penne, fettuccine, rotini, or spaghetti: All work well. Choose a shape that holds sauce.

• Cook until al dente — the pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it rests.

Garlic

• Fresh minced garlic is the backbone of the sauce. Its aroma and depth define the dish.

• Sautéed until just golden to avoid bitterness.

Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half

• Provides a rich, smooth base.

• Half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.

Parmesan Cheese

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and infuses the sauce with nutty, salty depth.

• Pre-shredded can work but may be slightly grainier due to anti-caking agents.

Butter & Olive Oil

• Used to sear the chicken and build the sauce.

• Adds richness and silkiness to the final texture.

Optional Add-Ins

• Red pepper flakes: For a little kick.

• Spinach or broccoli: To add color and veggies.

• White wine: A splash for deglazing adds subtle acidity and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add 12 oz of your preferred pasta and cook until al dente.

• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• While pasta cooks, season 1½ lbs sliced chicken with:

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add chicken and sear 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

• Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• In the same skillet, lower heat to medium.

• Add 1 tbsp butter and 4 cloves minced garlic.

• Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

• Pour in 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half) and bring to a gentle simmer.

• Stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth.

4. Assemble the Pasta

• Return cooked chicken to the skillet.

• Add drained pasta and toss to coat everything in the sauce.

• If needed, use reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

• Simmer 1–2 minutes more for flavors to combine.

5. Garnish & Serve

• Top with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and optional red pepper flakes.

• Serve hot with garlic bread, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Cooking Tips:

• Sear chicken well for deeper flavor and golden crust.

• Grate your own Parmesan for the creamiest texture.

• Don’t overcook the garlic — it should be fragrant, not browned.

Variations:

• One-pot version: Cook pasta in broth and cream in the same pan after searing chicken for less cleanup.

• Add greens: Toss in baby spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli toward the end.

• Bacon or mushrooms: Sauté after chicken for added richness and umami.

Substitutions:

• Lighter version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

• Gluten-free: Use your favorite GF pasta.

• Vegetarian: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners

• Date nights at home

• Family-friendly meals everyone will love

• Casual entertaining — just double the batch!

Pair with:

• A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian rolls

• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini

Leftovers are excellent for lunch and reheat well with a splash of milk or broth.

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is:

• High in protein from chicken and Parmesan

• Rich in calcium from dairy

• Comforting and filling thanks to the combination of carbs, fat, and protein

To make it more balanced:

• Use whole wheat pasta

• Add sautéed greens or steamed broccoli

• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

A1: Yes. Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works great. Just warm it in the sauce before serving.

Q2: How do I make the sauce thicker?

A2: Simmer the sauce slightly longer, or add a bit more Parmesan. You can also whisk in 1 tsp flour or cornstarch mixed with a splash of cold cream.

Q3: Can I make it ahead?

A3: It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce and chicken in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.

Q4: Can I use milk instead of cream?

A4: You can, but it will be much lighter. Add a bit more Parmesan to maintain richness, and be careful not to curdle the milk.

Q5: What other cheeses can I use?

A5: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella can work, but Parmesan is the classic choice for this sauce.

Q6: How long will leftovers last?

A6: Up to 3–4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring frequently.

Q7: Can I make this spicy?

A7: Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in a pinch of cayenne with the seasonings.

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