Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, cheesy, and packed with juicy chicken, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your next go-to comfort meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this one-skillet wonder hits all the right notes—rich, savory, and irresistibly satisfying.

The golden seared chicken paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a velvety parmesan sauce creates a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it ideal for busy families, date nights, or meal prepping.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish is the ultimate comfort food—with bold garlic flavor, buttery parmesan, and juicy seared chicken, all nestled into tender pasta. It’s a one-pan dinner dream: quick prep, simple cleanup, and every bite is loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness. The balance of richness from the sauce and the savory sear on the chicken makes this a repeat-worthy dinner.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini is perfect for holding onto that creamy garlic parmesan sauce. These shapes catch the sauce in every ridge, delivering maximum flavor in each bite. If you only have spaghetti or fettuccine on hand, those will work too—but for best results, stick to a sturdy, short pasta.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the juicy chicken to the creamy sauce, this pasta brings together simple pantry staples in the most delicious way.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Sliced thinly to cook quickly and stay tender while soaking up all the flavor.
• Pasta (Penne or Rotini) – Ideal for holding onto the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Fresh Garlic – The base of the flavor; garlic infuses the sauce with its signature aroma and depth.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for best results. It melts into the cream, creating a luscious sauce.
• Butter – For sautéing the garlic and enriching the overall taste.
• Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning every component.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a touch of heat if you like a little spice.
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish and a pop of fresh, herbal brightness.

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How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Follow these simple steps to bring this creamy pasta dish to life. The best part? Everything comes together in one skillet for a hassle-free dinner!

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together, coating the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with freshly chopped parsley and extra parmesan on top. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta serves about 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Serve it hot and creamy straight from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. If you’re planning a dinner party, it holds well in a warm oven until you’re ready to serve.

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore its creaminess. Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.

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What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

This rich and creamy pasta pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides or classic comfort food staples. Here are some tasty ideas to complete your meal:

1. Garlic Bread

Buttery, crispy garlic bread is a must. It’s perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy, slightly charred bite that balances out the creamy main dish.

4. Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans are a simple, healthy side that complements the garlic and parmesan flavors.

5. Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze give a fresh, tangy touch to your plate.

6. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms sautéed in garlic butter are a savory side that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

7. Lemon Herb Asparagus

A zesty and bright addition that balances the richness of the dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great alternative. Just make sure they’re boneless and cooked through before combining with the pasta.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then boil pasta fresh before serving. Store the sauce and chicken in the fridge, and gently reheat when ready to mix everything together.

3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cream cheese for a similar creamy texture, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also drizzle with spicy chili oil before serving.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up or keep it classic? Did you try it with a different kind of cheese?

I love seeing how you all add your own flair. Questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner magic together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and comfort classics on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover new favorites for every mood!

Looking for more cozy dinner ideas? Don’t miss my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta and One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta right here on the blog.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this pasta delivers every time.

From the savory garlic to the melty parmesan and juicy chicken, every bite is pure joy. Add it to your dinner rotation and enjoy a taste of cozy any night of the week.

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