Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite kind); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything you could want in a comfort meal. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, but it’s also easy to make. The garlic Parmesan sauce adds depth without being overly heavy, while the juicy chicken and tender pasta create a satisfying texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you want something comforting but quick.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite kind)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into strips or cubes.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.
Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can include vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Use different cheese: Swap out Parmesan for Romano, Asiago, or a blend of cheeses to give the sauce a different flavor.
Spicy option: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Use different protein: Substitute the chicken for shrimp, bacon, or even sausage for a different twist on this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream, and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta will work, but penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are popular choices for this dish.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to combine it with the pasta.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta for this dish to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Just add it to the sauce to heat through.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a spicy kick.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half will work as a lighter substitute for the heavy cream, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

How can I make this dish more savory?

You can add extra garlic or a tablespoon of butter to make the sauce more savory and flavorful.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish due to the cream-based sauce, but if you do, make sure to reheat slowly on low heat to prevent separation.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is an easy and delicious dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With simple ingredients and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you keep it classic or make some fun variations, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.