Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:35:53.743Z

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy garlic flavor that comforts the soul
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins
A crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When you're craving a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce that coats every bite. It's ideal for chilly evenings or any time you want a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. With every forkful, you experience the richness of heavy cream and the nutty notes of Parmesan cheese. Adding garlic not only enhances the taste but also infuses the dish with an aromatic quality that makes it irresistible.

Quick and Simple Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a delectable meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a homemade meal.

The straightforward steps allow even novice cooks to feel confident in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you'll find yourself mastering this dish in no time. Plus, the one-pan cooking method means fewer dishes to clean, making your evening even more enjoyable.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers, the options are endless.

Moreover, this dish can accommodate various proteins. If you're looking to switch things up, consider substituting chicken with shrimp, grilled vegetables, or even a plant-based protein. This adaptability not only keeps mealtime exciting but also ensures that you can enjoy this recipe in multiple ways throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to each bite.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, garlic bread or a toasted baguette also makes for a perfect side. You can use it to soak up the leftover creamy sauce on your plate, enhancing your meal while adding an extra layer of flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), storing them properly is essential to maintain freshness. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, it's best to do so on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth to rehydrate the sauce, ensuring it remains creamy and flavorful. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can alter the texture of the pasta and sauce.

Nutritional Information

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only a flavorful dish but can also be part of a balanced diet. The chicken provides a good source of protein, while the heavy cream adds richness. To make it even more nutritious, consider adding a variety of vegetables to the mix.

If you're watching your calorie intake, you can make a few adjustments. Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of cheese can lighten the dish without compromising too much on flavor. This way, you can enjoy your favorite comfort food while still keeping an eye on your nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just combine everything before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes, you can replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative instead of heavy cream.