Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Comfort Food at Its Best

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the definition of comfort food. With juicy, golden chicken pieces nestled in a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce, this dish combines elegance with heartiness. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough to make at home in under 40 minutes. The creaminess of the sauce clings beautifully to every strand of pasta, while the garlic and parmesan add depth and savory richness. When I made this with fettuccine instead of penne, it gave the dish an indulgent, silky finish, proving how versatile it can be. Whether served as a family meal or a romantic dinner, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide lean, tender protein and pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Olive oil – Used to sear the chicken, it adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.

Butter – Enriches the sauce and blends beautifully with garlic for a classic base.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is the star flavor of the sauce, adding warmth and depth.

Heavy cream – Creates the luscious, velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistible.

Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan thickens the sauce while adding salty, nutty richness.

Chicken broth – Helps balance the richness of the cream and deepens the savory flavor.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the chicken and sauce.

Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and bring out all the flavors.

Pasta – Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well, as long as they hold the creamy sauce.

Parsley – Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove from the pan, let rest, then slice into strips.

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer. Whisk in freshly grated parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water. Toss the pasta directly into the creamy garlic parmesan sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed for consistency. Nestle the sliced chicken on top and garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.

Serve hot for the ultimate creamy, cheesy pasta dish that tastes like a restaurant favorite made at home.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cooking time is 25 minutes, for a total of about 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may separate the cream. This dish is not freezer-friendly due to the creamy sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Spinach Addition – Stir fresh spinach into the sauce for extra greens.

Mushroom Upgrade – Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor.

Bacon Twist – Crispy bacon crumbles add a smoky, salty punch.

Spicy Kick – A pinch of red chili flakes gives the sauce subtle heat.

Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce cheese slightly.

Gluten-Free – Swap pasta for gluten-free varieties without sacrificing flavor.

Shrimp Swap – Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

Broccoli Boost – Add steamed broccoli florets for more texture and nutrients.

Herb Infusion – Fresh basil or thyme adds aromatic layers to the sauce.

Extra Cheesy – Mix parmesan with mozzarella for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, thighs work well and provide a juicier bite.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Penne and fettuccine are great options, but any pasta that holds sauce will work.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then cook pasta before serving.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Add more parmesan or let it simmer a little longer to reduce.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk alone won’t create the same creaminess, but half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild, creamy, and cheesy—kids love it.

Can I freeze creamy garlic parmesan pasta?

Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Cook on medium heat and avoid boiling the sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, spinach, broccoli, peas, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with indulgence. Rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s a dish that always satisfies, whether enjoyed on a weeknight or served for guests. With endless customization options and a quick cooking time, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll see why creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a classic that never goes out of style.