Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the bubbling sauce, the fragrant aroma of garlic wafted through my kitchen, instantly drawing me back to comforting family dinners long ago. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is my go-to dish for those evenings when I crave something hearty yet effortless. Not only does it deliver an indulgent taste in minimal prep time, but it’s also a versatile comfort food that everyone will love! With the option to switch up ingredients, you can easily customize it to suit your mood or pantry stash. So, whether you’re looking for a satisfying weekday meal or planning a cozy gathering, this creamy pasta will surely impress. Ready to discover how to whip up this delightful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Pasta So Irresistible? Comforting, Creamy Indulgence: The rich, velvety sauce embraces the pasta and chicken in a way that’s simply irresistible. Quick and Easy: This recipe offers a straightforward cooking method that allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal without hours in the kitchen. Versatile Options: Substitute ingredients to suit your dietary needs or whims; from using shrimp instead of chicken to adding fresh vegetables for a nutritious twist. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the sauce and chicken in advance for a speedy weeknight dinner, leaving you more time to unwind. Check out my Lemon Chicken Pasta for another comforting meal that’s just as delightful! Garlic Parmesan Pasta Ingredients • Get ready to create a creamy masterpiece with these simple components. For the Pasta Fettuccine or Choice of Pasta – This base provides structure; penne or fusilli can also be delicious alternatives. For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A hearty main protein; feel free to swap with shrimp, scallops, or tofu for variety. For the Sauce Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing, adding richness; butter can be a flavorful substitute. Salt and Pepper – Key seasonings that enhance every bite; adjust according to your taste preference. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – The aromatic heart of the sauce; consider increasing it for a stronger garlic punch. Heavy Cream (1 cup) – This creates a smooth and rich sauce; Greek yogurt offers a tangy twist if you want a lighter version. Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup) – Adds creaminess and flavor; avoid pre-grated for better melting. Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Deepens the sauce’s flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – A mix of herbs that elevate the dish; fresh herbs lend a vibrant touch. For Garnishing Fresh Parsley – A touch of freshness and color when serving; it’s optional but adds a lovely visual appeal. Now that you have all the essential ingredients for this cozy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, let’s move on to bringing this delightful dish to life! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add 8 oz of your choice of pasta, like fettuccine, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When cooked, drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water for later. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken While the pasta is cooking, season your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing. Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden. Then, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet to infuse the sauce with extra depth. Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings Once simmering, gradually stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding some of the reserved pasta water until it’s your desired creaminess. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce Now it’s time to unite the flavors! Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the velvety Garlic Parmesan sauce. If necessary, you can add more reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta without overwhelming it. Step 6: Serve and Garnish To finish your Garlic Parmesan Pasta, transfer your creation to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and aroma, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. This comforting dish is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing a warm and creamy delight to your dining experience! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta This delightful dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it perfect for a well-rounded meal. Garlic Bread: Freshly baked garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast with its romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing. Steamed Broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli offers a nutritious touch and bright green color, balancing the dish’s richness gracefully. Rosemary Focaccia: Aromatic rosemary focaccia not only enhances the dining experience but also serves as a delightful way to scoop up extra sauce. Roasted Vegetables: Mix seasonal roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side that adds wholesome flavors alongside pasta. Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade adds a zesty freshness that cuts through the creaminess, creating a vibrant pairing. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, serve silky chocolate mousse to finish the meal on a sweet note, creating a perfect comforting experience. Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio complements the dish wonderfully, enhancing the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Garlic Parmesan Pasta Variations Feel free to customize your Garlic Parmesan Pasta and make it your own with these delightful twists! Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for a healthy touch. They’ll bring color and extra nutrients to your dish. Pasta Shape Swap: Change things up by trying farfalle, rigatoni, or whole wheat pasta. A different shape can add a fun texture. Creamy Upgrade: Use mascarpone cheese in place of half the heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce, enveloping your pasta in sheer indulgence. Seafood Delight: Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a coastal twist. The seafood pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, giving a luxurious feel. Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a delicious vegan version that doesn’t skimp on creaminess. Herb Infusion: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant and vibrant addition that brightens the entire dish. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that will take the comforting flavors up a notch, appealing to those who crave a little spice. Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving. This will add delightful crunch and depth to each bite. Don’t forget to explore other comforting meals like my Lemon Chicken Pasta for more delicious inspiration! Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Pasta Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cool it down before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Anticipate a change in sauce texture upon thawing, but the flavors will remain delightful. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Revamping Leftovers: Consider transforming leftovers into a baked dish by adding cheese and broiling until bubbly for a new dining experience! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can prep the sauce and cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the chicken and let it cool before slicing, and prepare the creamy sauce by combining the garlic, broth, cream, and cheese. Store both in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, wait to combine the pasta until you’re ready to serve, as it can absorb the sauce. When you’re ready, just cook your pasta, toss everything together, and revel in a delicious, restaurant-quality meal—saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Pasta Pasta Perfection: Cook the pasta al dente and always use salted water; this enhances flavor and ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy. Flavor Boost: Don’t skip deglazing the skillet after cooking the chicken—this captures all those tasty browned bits and adds depth to your sauce. Adjusting Creaminess: If your sauce thickens too much, gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve the right creamy consistency that hugs the pasta beautifully. Marinate for More Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking; it infuses more flavor into your Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes; they not only add nutrition but also bring beautiful color to your dish. Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe FAQs How should I select my garlic for this recipe? Absolutely! To achieve that delightful garlic flavor, choose fresh, firm garlic bulbs with no dark spots or sprouting. The fresher the garlic, the more aromatic and potent it will be. If you’re in a pinch, jarred minced garlic can work, but fresh cloves offer a far superior taste. What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Very much! Place your leftover Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Pasta? Definitely! You can freeze this creamy pasta for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the sauce may change in texture once thawed. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and make sure to label it with the date. What if my sauce is too thick? No worries! If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water or chicken broth gradually until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. Stir while adding, and you’ll have a perfectly smooth sauce in no time. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes, indeed! If you’re cooking for those with dietary restrictions, consider substituting the chicken with tofu or shrimp. Also, you can use gluten-free pasta for a healthier option, and for lactose intolerance, try substituting heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. Always check your ingredients for possible allergens before serving to guests! How can I enhance the nutritional value of this Garlic Parmesan Pasta? The more the merrier! You can boost the nutrition by mixing in fresh vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli when sautéing the garlic. They’ll not only add vitamins but also bring a vibrant color to your plate, making it more visually appealing! Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight Indulge in this Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a cozy comfort food that combines flavorful garlic and creamy sauce with pasta and chicken for a delightful meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Fettuccine or Choice of Pasta Penne or fusilli are also good options.For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with shrimp, scallops, or tofu.For the Sauce2 tbsp Olive Oil Butter can be used as a substitute.to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust according to preference.4 cloves Garlic, minced Increase for a stronger garlic flavor.1 cup Heavy Cream Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Avoid pre-grated for better melting.1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.1 tsp Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can also be used.For Garnishingto taste Fresh Parsley Optional but adds a nice visual appeal. Equipment Large PotLarge skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsCook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 8 oz of pasta, and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and sauté chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat and add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tsp Italian seasoning until cheese melts and sauce is smooth. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to sauce, tossing to coat. Add more pasta water as necessary.Serve and Garnish: Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs before cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
