The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is the kind of dinner that turns an ordinary evening into something special. Tender chicken cubes are seared until golden, then tossed with pasta in a rich sauce made of garlic, cream, and Parmesan.
With Italian herbs and a touch of red pepper flakes, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Itโs quick enough for weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve when entertaining friends or family.
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The Story Behind This Recipe
Why Garlic and Parmesan Shine Together
Garlic and Parmesan have long been staples in Italian-American cooking. Garlic adds fragrance and depth, while Parmesan melts into a salty, nutty base that transforms any sauce into something extraordinary. When paired with cream and butter, these flavors create a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
How This Dish Balances Comfort and Elegance
This pasta dish offers the best of both worlds. Itโs hearty and comforting like classic mac and cheese, but the garlic and Parmesan elevate the flavors into something sophisticated. A garnish of parsley and the option of a crisp side salad make it a meal that feels balanced and complete.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
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Description
A rich and comforting pasta dish made with juicy chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and Italian herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
2 large chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cubed
1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli), penne, or rotini
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4โ5 cloves garlic, minced
1ยฝ cups heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning. Sear in skillet with 1 tbsp butter until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautรฉ briefly.
4. Deglaze with chicken broth, then stir in cream and remaining seasoning. Simmer 2โ3 minutes.
5. Lower heat and whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Do not boil.
6. Return chicken to skillet with its juices. Add pasta and toss in sauce, adding pasta water as needed.
7. Taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for richer flavor. Always grate Parmesan fresh for a smooth sauce. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Nutrition
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Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients Youโll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli), penne, or rotini
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4โ5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1ยฝ cups heavy cream
- ยฝ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
- ยผ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- 1 large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 large skillet or sautรฉ pan for chicken and sauce
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 pair of tongs for tossing pasta
- 1 knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Chicken thighs can be swapped for chicken breasts if you prefer more flavor and tenderness. Fresh Parmesan is essential, as pre-grated cheese often prevents the sauce from becoming smooth. Heavy cream provides the richest texture, though half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve ยฝ cup of pasta water, then drain and set pasta aside.
Preparing and Cooking the Chicken
- Pat chicken cubes dry, then season with salt, pepper, and ยฝ teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 3โ4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and set aside to rest.
Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Melt remaining butter in the same skillet.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautรฉing 30โ60 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping browned bits.
- Stir in heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning. Simmer 2โ3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, whisk in Parmesan gradually until sauce is smooth. Avoid boiling at this stage.
Combining Everything
- Return chicken and its juices to the skillet.
- Add pasta, tossing well to coat.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread, or for a lighter touch, a fresh green salad. You can also balance the richness by serving it with Simple Strawberry Shortcake or even Best Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe as a cozy finish.
Drinks That Match
White wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complement the creamy sauce. Sparkling water with lemon is also a refreshing option if you prefer non-alcoholic pairings.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid overheating, as cream-based sauces can split.
Freezing Instructions
While you can freeze the dish, cream sauces often change in texture. For best results, prepare chicken and pasta separately, then make the sauce fresh before serving.
Variations and Twists
Spicy Kick
Increase the red pepper flakes or add chili oil for more heat.
Vegetable Boost
Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Shrimp Version
Swap the chicken for shrimp and cook them quickly in butter before preparing the sauce.
FAQ Section
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Whatโs the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Fusilli and rotini hold the sauce well, but penne and fettuccine are also excellent.
Why should Parmesan be freshly grated?
Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, make the chicken and sauce ahead, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Conclusion
The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a comforting yet refined dish that combines juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce with tender pasta. With easy steps and versatile variations, itโs perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend entertaining. Once you try it, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
