Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is the ultimate cozy dinner for pasta and garlic lovers alike. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, rich garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese, all nestled in a bed of creamy pasta. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for family dinners or even a solo night in for some real comfort food. Every bite is a balance of tender chicken, smooth sauce, and a hint of garlic that makes this dish not only filling but downright irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry basics like pasta, garlic, and Parmesan, so you’re likely to have most of the ingredients on hand.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is beginner-friendly and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, make it gluten-free with your favorite pasta substitute, or add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Creamy, garlicky, and packed with flavor, this pasta dish appeals to kids, adults, and everyone in between.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts, cubed
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 16 oz Penne Pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is so straightforward to prepare that it’s perfect even for weeknights. Each step is designed to build flavor and create a deliciously creamy dish.
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become too soft once it’s mixed into the sauce. Drain the pasta, and set it aside for later. - Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season your cubed chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even more Parmesan if desired. - Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and add an extra handful of Parmesan for good measure. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Helpful Tips
- For Extra Creaminess: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt smoother than pre-grated varieties. Also, use heavy cream at room temperature to prevent curdling.
- Sauce Thickness: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth. The starch from the pasta water also helps the sauce cling better.
- Chicken Cooking Tip: Cut chicken into even-sized cubes for even cooking. Don’t crowd the pan to avoid steaming the chicken; this keeps it golden and tender.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms to make it a one-pan meal with extra veggies.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Comfort food, creamy pasta
Notes
- Adjusting Spice: The red pepper flakes add a nice hint of spice, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Pasta Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed or substitute with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 1005 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 46g
- Carbohydrates: 94g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for the richest texture, but whole milk can be substituted. Be mindful that the sauce may be a little thinner.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. For reheating, add a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it thickens upon cooling.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you’ll definitely enjoy these other creamy, savory dishes:
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is everything a comforting dinner should be—simple, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or looking to treat yourself, this pasta brings comfort and flavor with every bite. Give this recipe a try, and see how quickly it becomes a regular in your home! Enjoy the cozy, garlicky goodness and happy cooking!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is the ultimate cozy dinner for pasta and garlic lovers alike. There’s something magical about the combination of tender chicken, rich garlic, and savory Parmesan cheese, all nestled in a bed of creamy pasta. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for family dinners or even a solo night in for some real comfort food. Every bite is a balance of tender chicken, smooth sauce, and a hint of garlic that makes this dish not only filling but downright irresistible!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts, cubed
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 16 oz Penne Pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 6 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become too soft once it’s mixed into the sauce. Drain the pasta, and set it aside for later. - Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season your cubed chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken and pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even more Parmesan if desired. - Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and add an extra handful of Parmesan for good measure. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Notes
- Adjusting Spice: The red pepper flakes add a nice hint of spice, but you can leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Pasta Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta if needed or substitute with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.