Rich, creamy, and bursting with garlicky goodness, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort meal! Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious parmesan sauce come together in one pan for a dish the whole family will love. Need a quick meal or something special for guests? This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes and delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. With simple ingredients and rich, comforting flavors, this is a dish you’ll find yourself craving and making again and again! Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!
Table of contents
Ingredient lineup
To create this creamy, cheesy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, gather the following:
The essentials
- Penne pasta: holds the sauce beautifully with its ridged surface.
(Substitute: rigatoni, farfalle, or fettuccine.) - Chicken breasts: sliced and seared for tender, flavorful bites.
(Substitute: boneless chicken thighs for added juiciness.)
For the sauce
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and forms the base of the creamy sauce.
(Substitute: olive oil for a lighter alternative.) - Garlic: infuses bold, aromatic flavor.
(Substitute: garlic powder.) - Heavy cream: creates a velvety, indulgent texture.
(Substitute: half-and-half or evaporated milk.) - Chicken broth: enhances the depth of flavor while keeping the sauce silky.
(Substitute: vegetable broth for a lighter taste.) - Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce for cheesy goodness.
(Substitute: Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.)
Fresh vegetables
- Fresh spinach: adds a vibrant pop of color, a boost of nutrients, and a refreshing balance to the rich, creamy sauce.
(Substitute: kale, arugula, or frozen spinach.)
Herbs and seasonings
- Italian seasoning: blends perfectly with the garlic and parmesan for a flavorful finish.
(Substitute: equal parts dried oregano and thyme.) - Salt and pepper: essential for enhancing the flavor of both the chicken and the sauce, bringing out the best in every bite.
Optional toppings
- Fresh parsley: brightens the dish with a burst of freshness.
(Substitute: fresh basil or chives.) - Extra parmesan cheese: a must-have for cheese lovers to finish the dish.
- Red pepper flakes: for those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.
Step-by-step directions
Creating garlic parmesan chicken pasta is quick and simple. Follow these steps for a creamy, flavor-packed meal:
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, following the package instructions for that perfect bite. Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of pasta water—it’s the secret to achieving a silky, well-balanced sauce later.
Prepare and sear the chicken
Generously season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips—this keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Make the sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, letting it coat the pan for a rich, flavorful base. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, releasing its rich, garlicky aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting the mixture simmer gently. Whisk in the parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat).
Combine everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until every piece is fully coated and infused with flavor. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes. For an extra silky sauce, gradually add small splashes of reserved pasta water until the texture is just right.
Assemble and serve
Top the pasta with the sliced chicken, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch. Serve it warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad—because every great pasta dish deserves the perfect pairing!
Pro oh là là tips
Want to make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta even better? Try these simple tweaks and perfect pairings for a meal that’s truly unforgettable.
Customization and variations
- Boost the flavor: for deeper flavor, sauté onions along with the garlic before stirring in the cream—it makes a world of difference!
- Make it lighter: swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Spice it up: add red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a subtle heat.
- Extra cheesy upgrade: stir in some shredded mozzarella or provolone for that irresistible gooey texture.
- Protein swaps: use shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
- Vegetable boost: add sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli to bulk up the dish.
- Gluten-free option: substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like chickpea or lentil pasta.
Servings and pairings
- Fresh side salad: pair with a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Cozy soup pairing: enjoy alongside a warm bowl of tomato basil soup or creamy roasted red pepper soup for a comforting meal.
- Elegant plating: finish with a drizzle of olive oil, shaved parmesan, and a sprinkle of microgreens for a restaurant-style touch. Serve in shallow pasta bowls to highlight the creamy texture.
- Family-style serving: serve straight from the skillet or a large pasta bowl, letting everyone help themselves for a relaxed, cozy meal. For extra indulgence, offer grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and crusty bread on the side.
- Garlic bread pairing: serve with homemade garlic bread, a crispy baguette, or cheesy pull-apart bread to soak up every bit of the rich sauce.
- Brunch twist: turn leftovers into a creamy garlic parmesan breakfast bake by mixing in scrambled eggs and baking until golden.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
The calorie count for garlic parmesan chicken pasta varies depending on ingredients and portion size. On average, a one-serving portion (about 1 ½ cups) contains 600–750 calories, including pasta, chicken, heavy cream, parmesan, and butter. To lighten it up, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, whole wheat pasta, or reduce the cheese while still keeping it creamy and flavorful.
What pasta goes with chicken parmesan?
Chicken parmesan is traditionally served with long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, as the strands help soak up the sauce. However, penne, rigatoni, or bucatini also work well if you prefer a heartier bite. For a lighter option, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can be used as a low-carb alternative.
What’s the best way to reheat garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
The best way to reheat garlic parmesan chicken pasta is on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream to a skillet over low heat, then stir the pasta until heated through and the sauce is creamy again. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate. For a quick method, microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, and add a bit of liquid to keep it from drying out.
What vegetables go well in garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Several vegetables pair beautifully with garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Spinach, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes add depth and texture, while roasted bell peppers or cherry tomatoes bring a touch of sweetness. For a heartier option, add broccoli or asparagus, which complement the creamy sauce while adding a fresh, slightly crisp bite.
This isn’t just pasta—it’s comfort in a bowl, packed with creamy, garlicky goodness. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich parmesan flavor make it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re keeping it simple or adding your own twist, this dish is endlessly versatile and always satisfying.
Have a favorite twist or secret ingredient? Share your tips in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make this dish shine! Now grab your fork and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite. Bon appétit!
Recipe card
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Garlic parmesan chicken pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, extra parmesan cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
Boil salted water, cook penne until al dente, and reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2️⃣ Prepare and sear the chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fully cooked. Rest briefly, then slice into strips.
3️⃣ Make the sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, then whisk in parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4️⃣ Combine everything
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Add spinach and let it wilt. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
5️⃣ Assemble and serve
Top with sliced chicken, fresh parsley, and extra parmesan. Serve immediately with crusty bread or salad.
Notes
Pro oh là là tip: for extra flavor, finish the dish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a sprinkle of truffle salt for a luxurious touch!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes