Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is an ideal balance of creamy, cheesy goodness, and savory chicken, making it a satisfying and comforting meal. The garlic and Parmesan bring depth to the sauce, while the chicken adds protein to make the dish more filling. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan recipe that comes together quickly and is packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer again. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce, and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, add some spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it gluten-free: Swap the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Herb variation: Try using fresh basil or thyme in place of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Cheese variation: Experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for a unique twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but add a little liquid to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine are all great choices.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve and combine everything before serving.

3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream, and a dairy-free cheese substitute instead of Parmesan.

4. How do I get the sauce to thicken?

Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes while stirring, which helps it thicken as the cream reduces. If it’s still too thin, you can add a little cornstarch mixed with water.

5. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s thoroughly thawed before cooking. Cooking from frozen can make the chicken release too much moisture and affect the flavor.

6. Can I add other meats to this dish?

Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even sausage, depending on your preference.

7. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

While garlic adds a lot of flavor, you can skip it if you prefer a milder taste. Consider adding a bit of onion powder or shallots for flavor instead.

8. What can I serve with Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

You can serve this dish with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

9. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce.

10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe stores well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and reheat with some added liquid.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. With its rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and your favorite pasta, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!