If you’re craving something that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe is your next kitchen hero. Imagine tender slices of chicken mingling with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce dotted with sharp Parmesan and aromatic parsley. Every bite is rich yet balanced, easy to whip up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner date. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly climb your list of favorite meals to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple is one of the joys of this dish—each component plays a crucial role in building a perfect harmony of flavors and textures from silky sauce to tender chicken and comforting pasta. Here’s everything you need:
- Chicken breasts: Cooked and sliced for juicy, protein-packed bites that soak up the sauce wonderfully.
- Pasta (8 oz): Choose your favorite type; it provides the hearty base that carries all the delicious sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle richness and helps sauté the garlic and chicken perfectly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The star aromatic that infuses the dish with warmth and depth.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Creates the impossibly creamy, velvety sauce that clings to every pasta strand.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Adds savory undertones to brighten the sauce and balance the richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Brings a salty, nutty punch that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors without overpowering them.
- Fresh parsley: A touch of green that adds color and a fresh finish to the final dish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente—firm but not tough. This sets the stage for the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up all that garlicky goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Chicken
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle until fragrant, usually 1 to 2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t burn. Then, add the cooked, sliced chicken to the pan and warm it through for another 3 to 4 minutes. This quick step infuses the chicken with aromatic garlic flavor.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it thickens just a bit, about 3 to 5 minutes. This slow thickening process creates that silky, luscious base that’s key to the dish’s divine texture.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Season
Now it’s time for the Parmesan magic — sprinkle in the grated cheese while stirring constantly so it melts evenly into the sauce, making it smooth and creamy. Finish with a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste. This final seasoning step brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Finally, add the cooked pasta directly into your creamy sauce, tossing everything well so each strand and piece of chicken is coated in that dreamy, cheesy garlic sauce. It’s the ultimate blend of flavors and textures that make every bite so satisfying.
Step 6: Serve
Plate up your creation with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a vibrant burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes that brighten every mouthful. Serve this dish hot and enjoy the rich, comforting goodness you just crafted.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just decoration — it adds a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. You can also add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good quality olive oil for extra flair and taste.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Light, fresh sides balance the hearty nature of the pasta and create a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can really elevate your dining experience. Try serving this dish in shallow bowls with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top, alongside lemon wedges for a citrus twist. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also make the dish feel special when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up nicely, making it an excellent choice for quick next-day meals without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the pasta, but keep in mind the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the cooked pasta and chicken separately from the sauce and combine them when reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. Adding a splash of milk or chicken broth can help restore its creamy texture and keep the dish tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic here, you can try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even a mild Asiago for a subtle twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy sauce consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety and double-check your chicken broth ingredients to keep the dish gluten-free and delicious.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result is still wonderfully creamy and flavorful.
What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?
This recipe works beautifully with most pasta shapes. Fettuccine, penne, or bowties are excellent for holding onto the creamy sauce, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the cream and broth before stirring in the Parmesan. You can also whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water for an extra boost of thickness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and luxury in every bite, and this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe does just that. It’s a wonderful meal to share with loved ones or simply enjoy as a satisfying treat for yourself. Give it a try—once you do, it might just become your go-to recipe for those days when you want something quick, tasty, and utterly comforting.
Print
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Parmesan and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy chicken pasta recipe combines tender sautéed chicken with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a comforting and delicious meal ideal for a quick dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 8 oz pasta (your choice of type)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Add the cooked and sliced chicken breasts, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes to warm the meat through and infuse garlic flavors.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta directly into the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add brightness and a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your creamy chicken pasta meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Adjust seasoning by adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
