Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and quick meal that anyone can whip up in just 30 minutes. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce that makes every bite special. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli) (or penne/rotini)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for a velvety sauce)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing & thinning)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided use; half for chicken)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken: Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta. While the pasta cooks, pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Melt 1 Tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.
Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Then, reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Toss & Serve: Return the chicken (along with any juices) back to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss gently to coat the pasta and chicken in the sauce. If needed, add splashes of reserved pasta water for a silky texture. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Finally, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh look. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting results.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Feel free to use other proteins, like shrimp or even vegetables, to create a different flavor.
Variation
For a bit of extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce. You can also swap in different herbs or spices based on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving.
2. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well too, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
3. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water for deglazing the pan. Just remember that it might change the flavor slightly.
