This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a comforting dinner packed with tender chicken, pasta, garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce coats every bite, making this an easy recipe for your Pasta board.
Ready in about 30 minutes, this pasta works well for busy weeknights, family dinners, or a cozy weekend meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Creamy and comforting
- Tender, flavorful chicken
- Simple ingredients
- Easy weeknight dinner
- Family-friendly
- Great for leftovers
- Restaurant-style flavor at home
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 10 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Baby spinach
- Extra Parmesan
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until tender.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium.
Add butter and minced garlic.
Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
4. Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet.
Pour in a little reserved pasta water.
Toss everything together until the creamy sauce coats the pasta.
Add more pasta water if needed.
5. Finish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
Do not overcook the chicken.
Reserve pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps loosen and bind the sauce.
Keep the heat moderate when adding Parmesan to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
Serve the pasta while warm for the creamiest texture.
Easy Variations
Add Mushrooms
Sauté sliced mushrooms after cooking the chicken and stir them into the finished pasta.
Add Spinach
Add fresh spinach to the sauce during the final few minutes.
Make It Spicy
Add red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce.
Add Broccoli
Steam broccoli separately and toss it into the pasta before serving.
Change the Protein
Try shrimp, turkey, or cooked sausage instead of chicken.
What to Serve With Chicken Pasta
Pair this creamy pasta with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Garden salad
- Roasted vegetables
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water while reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pasta works best?
Penne, fettuccine, linguine, rotini, and spaghetti all work well.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor.
How do I keep the sauce creamy?
Avoid overheating the sauce after adding Parmesan. A small amount of pasta water also helps keep the sauce smooth.
Can I make this ahead?
For the best texture, prepare the pasta close to serving time. Leftovers store well for up to 3 days.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Method: Stovetop
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is an easy comfort food dinner with tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and a rich Parmesan sauce.
Save this recipe to your Pasta board for your next cozy weeknight dinner.