Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAfter a long day, the thought of a creamy, satisfying dinner can be just the comfort we crave. That’s where this 30-Minute Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta steps in, transforming your weeknight meal into a delightful indulgence. Picture golden-brown chicken mingling with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious garlic and Parmesan cream sauce that’s ready in a snap. This dish is not only a time-saver—perfect for those busy evenings—but it also turns any ordinary dinner into a culinary triumph. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less fuss and more fun in the kitchen! What variations will you try—chicken thighs or juicy shrimp? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity at its Best: The recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Bold Flavor: Rich garlic and Parmesan create an indulgent taste that will make your taste buds sing. Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate weeknight hero for busy schedules. One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach for a nutritional boost. With this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta on your dinner table, you’ll treat your loved ones to a comforting and delicious dish that beats any takeout! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients • Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delectable dish: For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – Source of protein and flavor; substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added juiciness. For the Pasta Twisted Pasta (Fusilli/Penne/Rottini) – Base of the dish providing structure; any short pasta can work. For the Sauce Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter option. Fresh Garlic – Enhances the sauce’s aroma and flavor; use roasted garlic for a sweeter taste. Heavy Cream – Creates a velvety texture for the sauce; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter alternative, though the flavor will change. Chicken Broth – Used for deglazing and thinning the sauce; vegetable broth is a suitable substitute. Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Delivers a smooth, rich flavor; use a microplane for the best melting results—avoid pre-shredded as it doesn’t melt as well. Italian Seasoning – Adds a blend of herbs; oregano, basil, or thyme can be used as substitutes. Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Provides a touch of heat; you can omit or reduce to suit your taste. For Seasoning and Garnish Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance flavor. Fresh Parsley – For garnish, adds color and freshness; basil or chives can also be used. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that you can whip up in no time! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your chosen twisted pasta, such as fusilli or penne, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. When ready, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta in a colander and set aside while you prepare the sauce. Step 2: Sear the Chicken While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced fresh garlic and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. Then, stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, allowing it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly into the creamy sauce. This step is crucial for achieving the signature creamy texture of your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, so take your time to ensure it’s perfectly blended. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta Return the seared chicken to the skillet, slicing it into bite-sized pieces if desired. Add the drained pasta, tossing gently to coat everything in the velvety sauce. To achieve your preferred consistency, gradually add reserved pasta water until you have a decadent, clingy sauce that hugs the pasta beautifully. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once everything is well combined and heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time is a brilliant way to save precious moments on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce can also be made a day in advance and refrigerated; just keep it separate from the pasta to prevent it from absorbing too much moisture. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency, then combine with the pasta and any pre-cooked chicken. This way, you’ll enjoy rich, restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort! What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Imagine gathering your loved ones around the table, dishes of delightful sides enhancing the creamy goodness of your pasta. Garlic Bread: A classic companion, its crispy, buttery crunch perfectly contrasts the creamy pasta, making each bite heavenly. Fresh Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini roasted to perfection bring a pop of flavor and nutrition to your meal. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Both options offer a refreshing tartness that cuts through the creamy sauce, providing a delightful beverage pairing. Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor and slight caramelization of the sprouts harmonize beautifully with the garlic Parmesan theme. Homemade Tiramisu: Finish off the meal with a coffee-flavored dessert that’s light yet indulgent, a perfect sweet contrast to your savory dish. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs are a savory start, paving the way for your pasta dish. Caprese Skewers: Bright, fresh flavors from tomatoes and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction, provide a fresh palate cleanser. Sparking Water with Lime: Crisp and effervescent, this refreshing drink pairs well with the richness of the pasta, offering a delightful juxtaposition. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For best results, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Consider splitting into individual servings for easy reheating later. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the pasta. Make-Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored separately in the fridge. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain quality. Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Fresh Cheese First: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting characteristics; pre-shredded options often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Garlic Care: Be cautious not to overcook the garlic, as it can turn bitter; aim for fragrant and golden, about 30-60 seconds is perfect. Pasta Water Magic: Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency; adding it will help the sauce cling better to the pasta. Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, a squeeze of lemon or a splash of dry white wine can elevate the sauce; try it for a gourmet touch. Protein Swaps: Consider swapping chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a delightful twist; just adjust cooking times accordingly for best results. With these tips, your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will shine at your dinner table, making every bite a comforting delight! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations Feel free to mix and match these delightful twists to make this dish your own! Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken breasts with shrimp, cooking just 1-2 minutes until pink for a seafood twist. Veggie Boost: Add fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes while making the sauce; they’ll wilt and burst with flavor. Herb Infusion: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil or thyme, elevating the dish’s aromatic qualities. Whole Grain Upgrade: Choose whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergy-friendly option without sacrificing flavor. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a unique flavor profile. Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream; it’ll give a tangy twist to the sauce. Zesty Finish: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing brightness that balances the richness. Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a touch of your favorite hot sauce to turn up the heat! With these options, you can customize your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to suit every palate. Enjoy experimenting! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? You can use any short pasta, but twisted shapes like fusilli or penne work beautifully as they hold onto the creamy sauce. If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free options, those can also be substituted without any issues. How should I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta cools completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to revive that creamy texture. Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently on the stove, adding some chicken broth to bring back the creaminess. What should I do if the sauce is too thick or the pasta seems dry? If you find the sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Just add a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen it. Stir gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This not only improves the texture but also helps the sauce cling beautifully to your pasta. Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies? While this recipe is rich in dairy, you can make it lactose-free by using lactose-free heavy cream and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. Additionally, substituting coconut cream for heavy cream provides a unique flavor that can be enjoyable for those avoiding dairy. What variations can I try with this recipe? Feel free to get creative! Swap out chicken for shrimp, using just 1-2 minutes of cooking until it’s pink and tender. You can also add in vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color, which makes the dish even more flavorful and vibrant! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes or Less This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and indulgent dinner that combines golden-brown chicken with al dente pasta in a rich garlic and Parmesan cream sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added juiciness.For the Pasta8 ounces Twisted Pasta (Fusilli/Penne/Rottini) Any short pasta can work.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter option.4 cloves Fresh Garlic Use roasted garlic for a sweeter taste.1 cup Heavy Cream Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a suitable substitute.1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Use a microplane for the best melting results.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Substitute with oregano, basil, or thyme.1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional) Omit or reduce to suit your taste.For Seasoning and Garnish1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Black Pepper2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Basil or chives can also be used. Equipment large potColanderLarge skilletwhisk Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken PastaCook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet with butter for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.Melt remaining butter in the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, then stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning, simmering for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.Return chicken to skillet, slice, and add pasta, tossing to coat in sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot garnished with parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
