Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta, and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one dish that delivers on all fronts. It’s rich, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re craving something indulgent for dinner or looking for a dish that the whole family will love, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a garlicky, buttery sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Sounds delicious, right? This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a quick but satisfying meal.
Fun fact: Did you know that garlic and Parmesan are a match made in heaven? Their bold flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a sauce that’s both creamy and tangy. Plus, garlic has natural health benefits, making this dish a tasty yet wholesome choice.
If you loved our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, you’ll adore this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta—it’s just as comforting but with a simpler ingredient list and a more pronounced garlicky kick. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful recipe!
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
You might be wondering—what makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta so special? The name says it all! This dish combines the irresistible flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and tender chicken, all tossed in a luscious, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta.
Ever heard the saying, ‘The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’? Well, this dish is proof of that! It’s a meal that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering. Plus, who doesn’t love a creamy, cheesy pasta dish?
So, if you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant, this is the one to try. Trust us—you won’t regret making it!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
✔ Rich & Creamy: The combination of Parmesan cheese and garlic-infused sauce creates a decadent, silky texture that coats every bite.
✔ Budget-Friendly: Skip the expensive takeout—this restaurant-quality pasta is made with simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
✔ Easy to Customize: Want to add a little heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes. Prefer a protein boost? Try adding shrimp or bacon!
If you loved our Chicken Alfredo Pasta, you’ll appreciate how this dish offers a similar creamy experience with a bolder garlic flavor. Give it a try, and let us know which one you like better!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Quick Overview
This recipe is a breeze! You’ll cook the pasta, pan-sear the chicken, and make a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce—all in under 30 minutes. The result? A rich, flavorful dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Key Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta | 12 oz | Fettuccine or penne works well |
| Chicken breast | 2, boneless | Cut into thin strips |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic is best |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness to the sauce |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For a creamy texture |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated | Freshly grated is ideal |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup | Enhances the sauce flavor |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking the chicken |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 tsp | Adds a little heat |
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and combined.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for an added kick!
What to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta With?
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce |
| Caesar Salad | A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta |
| Roasted Vegetables | Adds a healthy, colorful side option |
| White Wine | Complements the creamy and garlicky flavors |
Tips & Tricks
✅ Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so always go for freshly grated Parmesan.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook it before adding it to the sauce, as it will continue to absorb flavors.
✅ Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or pasta water to thin it out.
✅ Make It Spicy: For a kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
✅ Make It Healthier: Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is everything you could want in a meal—creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress.