Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Savory & Ready in 30 Minutes
Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta made with juicy pan-seared chicken, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy garlic sauce — a fast, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
-
1½ lbs chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
-
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
-
2 tbsp olive oil + butter, divided
-
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
Reserved pasta water (as needed)
-
Optional: parsley, red pepper flakes, spinach
Instructions
-
Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain and set aside.
-
Season chicken and sear in 1 tbsp oil + 1 tbsp butter. Cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan.
-
In same pan, add 1 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté 1 minute.
-
Pour in cream and bring to simmer. Add Parmesan and whisk until smooth.
-
Return chicken and pasta to pan. Toss to coat. Add pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
-
Garnish and serve hot.
Notes
-
Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
-
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
-
Fresh Parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.