Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Comforting Dinner Favorite

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Introduction

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a dinner—it’s the ultimate comfort food. Imagine tender chicken pieces coated in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta that clings to every bite. This dish combines the richness of Alfredo with the rustic charm of Tuscan flavors, giving you a meal that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you call it Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo, Creamy Chicken Garlic Pasta, or even Parmesan Cream Chicken Pasta, one thing is certain: this recipe will win hearts at the dinner table.

If you’ve been searching for a weeknight dinner that looks gourmet but takes less than 40 minutes, you’re in the right place. This pasta recipe balances flavor, texture, and aroma so well that you’ll feel like you’re dining at your favorite Italian restaurant—without leaving home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Velvety Sauce: A luscious blend of heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan for the perfect silky texture.

  • Quick & Easy: Dinner on the table in under 40 minutes.

  • Customizable: Works with fusilli, penne, linguine, or spaghetti.

  • Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful; kids love it too.

  • Restaurant Quality: Tastes like fine dining without the high bill.

  • Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well for lunches.

  • Flexible Diet Options: Can be adapted to gluten-free or lighter versions.

  • Irresistible Aroma: Fresh garlic and herbs fill your kitchen with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Fettuccine (plus pro substitution tips):

  • 2 large chicken breasts – boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes.
    Tip: You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

  • 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli) – or penne/rotini.
    Any sturdy pasta works; spaghetti or linguine give a lighter feel.

  • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter – for richness.

  • 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced – the star of the sauce.

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream – creates the creamy base.

  • ½ cup chicken broth – deglazes and balances richness.

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – melts smoothly (avoid pre-shredded).

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – half for chicken, half for the sauce.

  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle kick.

  • Salt & black pepper – to taste.

  • 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – for garnish and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta & Sear the Chicken

  • Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.

  • Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.

  • In a skillet, melt 1 Tbsp butter, sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.

2. Build the Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 Tbsp butter.

  • Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

  • Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping brown bits (this boosts flavor).

  • Stir in heavy cream and the rest of the seasoning; simmer gently 2–3 minutes.

  • Reduce heat and whisk in Parmesan gradually until smooth.

3. Combine & Serve

  • Return chicken and its juices to the pan. Add pasta.

  • Toss gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water for a silky consistency.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta

 How do I stop the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding Parmesan. High heat causes separation.

 Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Store cooked pasta and sauce separately; combine when reheating for best texture.

 Can I use milk instead of cream?

Whole milk works, but for a thicker sauce, mix with 1 Tbsp flour or cornstarch.

Best Ways to Serve

This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.

  • A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables.

  • A glass of chilled Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.

👉 Try serving it alongside my Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Mashed Potatoes for a full Italian-inspired feast.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~620

  • Protein: 34g

  • Carbohydrates: 48g

  • Fat: 30g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 720mg

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers up to 3 days.

  • Freeze: Sauce can be frozen (without pasta) for 2 months.

  • Reheat: Gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

FAQs

 Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw fully before searing to ensure even cooking.

 What pasta works best?

Short shapes like fusilli or penne catch the sauce beautifully, but spaghetti or linguine work too.

 Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check Parmesan labels for hidden additives.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Variations

  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

  • Tuscan Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

  • Spicy Twist: Stir in chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

  • Protein Swap: Try shrimp, salmon, or rotisserie chicken.

  • Herb Upgrade: Fresh basil or thyme adds a Mediterranean touch.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s cozy enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests, and versatile enough to tweak based on your preferences. Once you try it, it’s bound to become part of your regular dinner rotation.

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