Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Cozy, and Packed with Flavor

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of dinner that feels indulgent yet comforting in the best possible way. It’s rich without being heavy, creamy without being overwhelming, and packed with savory garlic and nutty Parmesan in every bite. From the moment the garlic hits the pan, you know something special is coming together.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying but still easy to pull off. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce come together in one irresistible bowl. It’s the kind of recipe that feels restaurant-worthy but is made with simple, familiar ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

What makes garlic parmesan chicken pasta so beloved is its balance. The garlic brings bold flavor, the Parmesan adds richness, and the cream ties everything together into a sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Juicy, seasoned chicken adds protein and makes this a complete, filling meal on its own.

This recipe is also wonderfully adaptable. You can change the pasta shape, add vegetables, or adjust the creaminess to your liking. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just craving a cozy dinner, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers comfort every single time.

If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing pasta that feels both classic and indulgent, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions:

1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to low.
6. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be fragrant, not browned.
• Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations

• Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Finish with cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes.

Storage Information

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

FAQ

• Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, just add it when combining with the sauce.
• What pasta works best? Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well.
• Is this kid-friendly? Absolutely—creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor.

History / Fun Facts
Garlic and Parmesan are classic Italian-inspired flavors often used in simple pasta dishes. While this creamy version leans American-Italian, it captures the comforting essence of rustic pasta meals made to be shared.