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; Salt, for boiling water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 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 flavors of creamy garlic and parmesan with this delicious chicken pasta dish, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:45:58.537Z

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken and al dente pasta in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor balanced by creamy parmesan sauce
Quick and easy to prepare for a weeknight meal
Perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests

      

A Comforting Classic

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish that perfectly combines comfort and indulgence. The creamy sauce envelops each strand of pasta, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Ideal for those chilly evenings or when you simply need a pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a delightful choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

With its rich garlic aroma and luscious parmesan richness, this dish tantalizes the taste buds. The diced chicken adds a hearty element, transforming it from a simple pasta dish into a complete meal. Whether served with a side salad or garlic bread, this creamy pasta dish is designed to impress and satiate.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its quick preparation time. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensures that even novice cooks can create this delightful dish with ease.

Simply cook the pasta, sauté the chicken, and prepare the creamy garlic sauce—all in one skillet! This not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of a mountain of dishes afterward. This ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for entertaining guests or satisfying unexpected cravings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is versatile enough to suit any dining occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish will please even the pickiest eaters. Its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it a fantastic choice for special celebrations, date nights, or gatherings with friends.

Additionally, this recipe allows for easy customization. You can add vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. This flexibility ensures that you can adapt the dish to meet your dietary needs or preferences while still maintaining its delicious essence.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

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

Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to combine until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the best texture for your pasta, ensure that you do not overcook it. Al dente pasta will hold up better when combined with the creamy sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Remember to reserve a little pasta water before draining; this starchy water can be added to the sauce if you need to thin it out.

When boiling your pasta, make sure to generously salt the water. This is your opportunity to season the pasta from within, enhancing its flavor and ensuring a more delicious final dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be enjoyed the next day, but be mindful that the sauce may thicken upon cooling. To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and return it to a creamy consistency.

For best results, reheat your pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This method will help maintain the sauce's texture and flavor, giving you a delicious meal just like when it was freshly made.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. These wines will enhance the dish's creamy elements without overpowering them.

For a complete meal, serve this pasta with a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the creaminess, providing a balanced dining experience that satisfies all palates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta can be substituted for a healthier option.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then simply combine with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick!