Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Rich, Cheesy, and Comforting

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a plate of pasta coated in a luscious cream sauce. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines juicy seared chicken, a velvety Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta into a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying.

Perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, this recipe is quick to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. With layers of garlic flavor, melted Parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice into strips.

Step 3 – Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 4 – Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5 – Serve

Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Recipe Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy – The Parmesan sauce is rich, velvety, and full of garlic flavor.
• Family-Friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes.
• Versatile – Works with different pasta shapes or proteins.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or Asiago for extra cheesiness.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Caesar salad or a simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli)
• A chilled glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 36 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Rotisserie chicken works well—just add it to the sauce to warm through.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and check broth labels for gluten-free certification.

What pasta works best?
Fettuccine, penne, and spaghetti all work well—the sauce clings beautifully to each.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. With juicy chicken, a creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers every time.