Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Crave

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting dinner that feels like something from your favorite restaurant, you’ve got to try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. I make it on busy weeknights when I want something filling but still simple. The sauce is rich, the chicken is tender, and the pasta ties it all together in the most satisfying way.

What is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

This dish is a cozy combination of juicy chicken, a silky garlic parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The garlic brings warmth, the parmesan adds sharp cheesy flavor, and the cream makes it all extra indulgent. It’s one of those pastas that feels fancy but is secretly so easy to pull together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

1. Cook the pasta – Boil in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Season and cook the chicken – Rub with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Slice and set aside.
3. Make the sauce – In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in cream and chicken broth, then simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens.
4. Add cheese – Stir in parmesan until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
5. Combine everything – Toss in pasta, coat well, then top with sliced chicken. Sprinkle parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Add garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
• A glass of white wine makes it feel like a restaurant meal.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add spinach or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies.

FAQs

Can I make it less rich?
Yes, just replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.

What if I don’t have parmesan?
Use Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a milder, creamier sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all—unless you add red pepper flakes.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely, just use gluten-free pasta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s comforting, flavorful, and so simple to whip up. Try it tonight—you’ll love how fast it comes together and how fancy it tastes without much effort!