Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves minced garlic; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 oz cooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, or preferred type); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese in a velvety sauce. I love how the creamy texture coats every bite of pasta, creating a meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and easy it is to make with simple pantry staples. The creamy Parmesan sauce brings so much flavor without needing a complicated ingredient list. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve when I have guests over. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
Minced garlic
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Grated Parmesan cheese
Cooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite type)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through. Once done, I remove it and let it rest before slicing.
In the same skillet, I sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Then I pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
I stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Next, I add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat well.
I slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
I finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30–35 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s quick enough for busy evenings but still feels like a special treat.

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken for shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a meatless version. If I want to add a little spice, I stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. For a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. And when I want an extra cheesy kick, I mix in some shredded mozzarella or Asiago cheese along with the Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I usually add a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. I avoid overheating so the sauce stays creamy and smooth.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

I let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. If I need more help, I mix in a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I often use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. I just add it after the sauce is done and heat it through.

What kind of pasta works best?

I prefer using fettuccine, penne, or rotini. Any pasta that holds the creamy sauce well will work great.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

I don’t recommend freezing it, as cream-based sauces tend to separate after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

What can I add for more flavor?

I like adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra depth. A squeeze of lemon also brightens up the dish.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is my go-to when I need something cozy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The creamy sauce, seasoned chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a meal I come back to again and again. Whether for family dinners or meal prep, it always hits the spot.