Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a simple and comforting dinner made with tender chicken, pasta, garlic, and a smooth Parmesan sauce. It comes together in about 35 minutes and uses everyday ingredients, making it perfect for a family meal or an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 300 g (10.5 oz) pasta, such as fettuccine or penne
• 450 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) chicken broth
• 75 g (3/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve about 120 ml (1/2 cup) of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the chicken

1. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. Cook the chicken

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

4. Make the garlic sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

5. Add the Parmesan

1. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Avoid boiling the sauce.

6. Combine everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
• Do not overheat the sauce after adding the cheese.
• Cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Keep some pasta water aside to adjust the sauce if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta hot with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. It pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed.

Recipe Notes

The sauce thickens naturally as it cools. If you prefer a lighter consistency, add a little extra chicken broth or reserved pasta water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and give the dish a slightly richer flavor.

Which pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, linguine, rigatoni, or similar pasta shapes all work well with the creamy sauce.

Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, although the sauce may be slightly thinner and less rich.