Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

I make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta when I want something creamy, comforting, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, rich parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a satisfying dish that feels both cozy and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe comes together quickly while still tasting like something special. The garlic and parmesan create a rich, savory flavor that coats every bite of pasta. I also appreciate how versatile it is—I can easily adjust ingredients based on what I have on hand. It’s a reliable meal that works for busy weeknights or when I want to impress without too much effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
250 g pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

I start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions, then I drain it and set it aside.

In a large pan, I heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chicken pieces. I season them with salt, pepper, and paprika, then cook until they are golden and fully cooked through. I remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same pan, I melt the butter and add the minced garlic. I sauté it for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

I pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. I let it simmer for a few minutes until it starts to thicken.

Next, I add the parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

I return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

I finish by sprinkling fresh parsley on top and serve it warm.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch the chicken for shrimp when I want a seafood twist. If I feel like adding more vegetables, I toss in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli. For a lighter version, I replace heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich. I also like experimenting with different pasta shapes depending on what I have available.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. I avoid overheating to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

I can use pre-cooked chicken to save time, and I simply add it when combining everything with the sauce.

What type of pasta works best?

I prefer penne or fettuccine because they hold the sauce well, but I can use any pasta I have.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I can prepare it ahead, but I find it tastes best fresh. If I make it early, I store it and reheat gently with extra liquid.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

I sometimes use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of butter, though the sauce will be less creamy.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

I add a little chicken broth or milk while reheating to bring the sauce back to the right consistency.

Conclusion

I find this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta to be a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. It’s a dish I can rely on whenever I want something comforting, creamy, and satisfying without too much effort.