Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken pieces, creamy Parmesan cheese, and a garlicky sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting and satisfying without needing a lot of fuss or fancy ingredients.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but quick to pull together. The garlic gives it a nice kick, the Parmesan adds a rich, cheesy touch, and the chicken keeps it filling. One of my tips is to really let the garlic cook just enough to mellow out its sharpness but not burn, so it’s perfectly flavorful every time.
This pasta is great for a casual dinner with family or friends, and I often serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies on the side. It’s a recipe that’s easy to customize too—throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite herbs to switch things up. It’s one of those meals that never gets old in my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: They give the dish its hearty protein. If you want something quicker, try pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine works great here because their wide shape holds the creamy sauce well. Penne or rigatoni are good substitutes if that’s what you have.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture. Pre-grated is okay, but fresh will melt better and taste fresher. You can swap with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce creamy and silky. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings the main flavor punch. Garlic powder can be a quick backup, but fresh is best for that fragrant taste.
How Do You Make the Chicken Tender and Juicy?
Cooking chicken just right is key. Here’s how you can get a juicy, flavorful result:
- Pat chicken dry, then season well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the skillet enough so the oil is hot, which helps form a nice crust and seals in juices.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes each side without moving it too much.
- Once cooked, let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
This simple method keeps the meat tender and flavorful, fitting perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a good-sized skillet to cook the chicken and make the sauce easily in one pan.
- Pot for pasta – Use a large pot to cook the pasta until al dente without overcrowding.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To get the garlic, cream, and seasonings just right.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – Great for removing the chicken without breaking it apart.
- Grater – For freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which really enhances the flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for different proteins or vegetarian options.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce when simmering for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Include a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley for a bright herbal note on top.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25 to 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and pasta, then another 10-15 minutes simmering the sauce and combining everything. It’s a quick, tasty dinner for any night.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the sauce.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Pat your chicken breasts dry, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you smell a nice garlic aroma, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, so it thickens up just a bit.
Then stir in the butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
4. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat all the noodles evenly. Slice the rested chicken and lay it on top of the pasta. Garnish with some fresh parsley or thyme and extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta — a perfect meal that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture so it browns nicely in the skillet.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely. You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, but it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the chicken, pasta, and sauce separately and store them in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce and toss with pasta, then top with warmed sliced chicken.
