Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken pieces, rich creamy sauce, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, all tossed with your favorite pasta. The garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor that makes every bite so satisfying and cozy.
I love making this recipe on busy weeknights because it feels like a special treat but comes together quickly. The creamy sauce is simple to whip up and clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken, making it impossible not to go back for seconds. A little tip I like to use is to add just a pinch of red pepper flakes to give it a subtle kick without overpowering the garlic and cheese flavors.
This pasta is such a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s just a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. I often serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance all that creamy richness. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and leaves everyone smiling around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: They’re perfect for keeping the dish tender. If you want a lighter option, try chicken thighs—they stay juicy and add rich flavor. For a vegetarian swap, use sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Parmesan cheese: This cheese gives the sauce its signature nutty taste. If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy touch, but in a milder way.
Heavy cream: It makes the sauce smooth and creamy. If you want to reduce fat, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version, but the sauce will be a bit thinner.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for bold flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh minced garlic really brightens the dish.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine noodles hold the sauce nicely, but any long pasta like spaghetti or tagliatelle works great, too.
How Do You Get Tender, Juicy Chicken with a Nice Golden Crust?
Cooking the chicken just right is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry so it browns evenly without steaming.
- Season it well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
- Heat the oil on medium-high until shimmering, then add the chicken.
- Don’t move the chicken too soon; let it form a golden crust, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check—it’s done at 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
These steps help you enjoy juicy chicken with great flavor and texture every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like it because it heats evenly and lets you cook both the chicken and sauce in one pan.
- Pot for boiling pasta – a big enough pot makes cooking pasta easier and prevents it from sticking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir the sauce without scratching the skillet.
- Chef’s knife – cuts the chicken into uniform slices and minces garlic smoothly.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp or turkey for different protein options that cook quickly.
- Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor complexity.
- Use mozzarella, Asiago, or a blend of cheeses instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
- Spice it up by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of paprika to the sauce.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
To Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish, including boiling the pasta, cooking the chicken, and preparing the rich garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s quick enough for a weekday dinner but special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, until you can smell the garlic but it isn’t browned. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if you like a bit of heat. Let the sauce simmer gently.
4. Finish the Sauce & Combine:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes). Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Slice your rested chicken into strips, then add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat the noodles with that creamy goodness.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Divide the creamy pasta onto plates or bowls. Place the sliced chicken on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve right away and enjoy your comforting, delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken safely in the fridge overnight or in cold water sealed in a plastic bag. Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken up to 2 days in advance. Store everything separately in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm on the stove or microwave slowly, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
What Pasta Works Best If I Don’t Have Fettuccine?
Any long pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or tagliatelle works well. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
