Description

Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This comforting dish combines tender, golden-browned chicken with a rich, velvety garlic parmesan sauce, perfectly coating al dente pasta. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an ideal meal for both busy weeknights and cozy dinners. Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins, and savor every bite of this irresistible classic. Easy to make, even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale

Let’s break down the ingredients to understand what makes this garlic parmesan chicken pasta flavorful. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences.

8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle): Pasta shape plays an important role in how well the sauce clings to the dish. Short pasta varieties like penne or fusilli work best for capturing the creamy sauce in every bite.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, but you can swap them for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Thighs are more forgiving when it comes to overcooking, making them a great option for beginners.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the star of this dish, adding robust flavor and aroma. Mince it finely to ensure it melds well into the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream is essential for a rich, velvety sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or even evaporated milk.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, so grating your own is worth the extra effort.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce and thins out the cream, creating a balanced texture. Vegetable broth can be used as a replacement if you’re vegetarian.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. Avocado oil is another option if you want a higher smoke point.
1 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the garlic sauce, making it smooth and luxurious.
1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper: These basic seasonings bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
1 tsp dried basil and 1 tsp dried oregano: These herbs complement the garlic and parmesan, adding an Italian touch to the dish. You can substitute with fresh herbs for a more intense flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish and enhances the presentation.
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Be sure to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This will help adjust the sauce consistency later.
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels (this helps achieve a good sear). Then season both sides with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, until browned and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Garlic Sauce: Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic and cook for one to two minutes, or until fragrant. Stir continuously to avoid burning the garlic. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken somewhat.
Add the Cheese: Slowly stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can adjust it by adding a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Combine: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. To coat the pasta and chicken with sauce, toss everything together.
Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

#Garlic parmesan chicken pasta

Notes

Lighter Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Protein Swap: You can use chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a different spin on this recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Comfort Food
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 600 kcal
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 35g