Some nights call for something extra comforting—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. That’s where this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes in. Imagine tender chicken pieces tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s cozy, satisfying, and feels a little bit fancy without being complicated.
The best part? This dish uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a comforting family dinner.
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / Pasta | 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 | ~480 kcal |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until golden and no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the sauce. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan. Stir in grated Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Cook 3–4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce. Add cooked pasta and stir until everything is well coated.
- Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, then enjoy warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente so it holds up in the creamy sauce.
- Sauce too thick? Add a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to loosen it up.
- Make-ahead tip: Cook chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently and toss with fresh pasta.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Try shrimp, salmon, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half or whole milk with a cornstarch slurry for creaminess.
- Add veggies: Broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make tasty add-ins.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
- Add a glass of white wine for an extra cozy, indulgent dinner.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary night into something special. With its velvety sauce, tender chicken, and comforting flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Gather around the table, twirl your fork into the creamy pasta, and enjoy the cozy magic of homemade comfort food.