Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort dish—rich, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy. It combines tender, juicy chicken with a velvety Parmesan sauce that coats each bite of pasta beautifully. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something indulgent yet simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts
• Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
• Butter
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken – Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
4. Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
5. Add Liquids – Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes.
6. Incorporate Cheese – Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Add red pepper flakes if using.
7. Combine Everything – Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
8. Slice and Serve – Slice the chicken and place it over the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Variations

• Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Protein Choices: Swap chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood variation.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Vegetable Addition: Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works well. Simply slice and add it during the final steps.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken ahead, then cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add extra chicken broth or a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much while cooking.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, try Romano, Asiago, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors make it a family favorite.

What can I serve with this dish?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pair well with this pasta.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Consider adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it.

How do I make this a one-pot meal?

Cook the pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth, reducing dishes and enhancing flavor.

Can I add bacon to this dish?

Yes! Crispy bacon bits add a delicious smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a decadent yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with variations, this pasta will quickly become a go-to comfort meal in your kitchen. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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