Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing chicken); 2 tbsp olive oil (for chicken marinade); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced (for chicken marinade); 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ tsp sea salt (for chicken marinade); ¼ tsp black pepper (for chicken marinade); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; 12-16 oz fettuccine or preferred pasta shape; Salt (for pasta water); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup); 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce); ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish; ½ tsp sea salt, to taste (for sauce); ¼ tsp black pepper, to taste (for sauce)

Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire. Imagine stepping into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible, rich aroma of golden garlic, savory Parmesan, and perfectly tender chicken, all lovingly tossed with al dente pasta. This delightful creation, while a modern classic, beautifully marries the hearty, comforting traditions of Italian pasta dishes with the accessible, crowd-pleasing qualities of American family cuisine. It truly embodies a culinary sweet spot where robust, familiar flavors converge with satisfying textures, creating a symphony for your palate that you’ll crave again and again.

I find that people absolutely adore this incredible Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta for a multitude of compelling reasons.

The creamy, savory sauce, generously infused with potent garlic and nutty Parmesan, masterfully coats every strand of pasta and every succulent piece of chicken, ensuring a truly decadent and flavor-packed bite.

It’s a remarkable dish that offers both the welcoming convenience of a delicious weeknight dinner and the sophisticated elegance suitable for entertaining esteemed guests. The harmonious blend of high-quality ingredients ensures that each forkful bursts with umami, making it an undeniable crowd-pleaser that effortlessly satisfies even the most discerning appetites. Prepare to make this your new signature dish!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 12-16 ounces fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite pasta shape
- Salt for pasta water
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (yes, a lot of garlic for that amazing flavor!)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Prep Work & Marinating the Chicken

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready for this incredible “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” dish. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This seemingly small step is actually incredibly important! By removing excess moisture, you’ll achieve a much better sear and a beautiful golden-brown crust later on. Once dry, you’ll want to either butterfly each chicken breast if they are particularly thick, or slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. My goal here is to get them to a relatively uniform thickness, about ¾ to 1 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly. If some pieces are thicker than others, you can place them between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet until they are consistent. This step isn’t just about even cooking; it also makes the chicken more tender.
Whisk Up the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, let’s create our flavor-packed marinade. Combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you enjoy a little warmth), ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Give it a good whisk until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The lemon juice helps to tenderize the chicken slightly and adds a bright note, while the garlic and oregano infuse it with classic Mediterranean flavors.
Marinate the Chicken: Now, add your prepared chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Use tongs or your hands (wearing gloves is a good idea here!) to toss the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated with that fragrant mixture. Make sure each cutlet is swimming in the deliciousness. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate. I recommend at least 30 minutes to an hour for the flavors to really penetrate the chicken. However, if you have more time, you can let it marinate for up to 4 hours. Anything longer than that and the lemon juice can start to “cook” the chicken, altering its texture. While the chicken is marinating, you can start gathering your ingredients for the sauce and pasta, getting a head start on the next stages of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” creation.

Preparing the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Sauté the Garlic: In a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is shimmering and fully melted, add the generous 6-8 cloves of minced garlic. Oh, the aroma already! Sauté the garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and slightly softened. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn; burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the delicate flavor of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce. We’re aiming for that beautiful, sweet, aromatic essence of cooked garlic. Keep a close eye on it, as minced garlic can cook quickly.
Create the Roux: Once the garlic is fragrant, sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Immediately begin whisking continuously. You’re creating a roux, which will be the thickening agent for our rich sauce. Continue to whisk and cook the flour for about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it cooks out the raw flour taste, ensuring your sauce has a smooth, nutty flavor rather than a pasty one. The mixture will form a thick paste; that’s exactly what we want.
Whisk in the Broth: Gradually, and I mean gradually, pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, whisking constantly as you add it. Start with just a splash, whisk until it’s fully incorporated into the roux, then add another splash. This slow addition and continuous whisking prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth sauce. Keep whisking until the sauce begins to thicken and you achieve a lovely, uniform consistency. This process might take a few minutes, so be patient. The goal is a velvety base for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce.
Stir in the Heavy Cream: Once the broth is fully incorporated and the sauce has thickened slightly, reduce the heat to low. Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir it gently into the sauce. The heavy cream will add an incredible richness and a luscious mouthfeel, making this sauce truly decadent. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, just tiny bubbles around the edges, but do not bring it to a rolling boil. Continue to stir occasionally, letting the flavors meld and the sauce warm through.
Incorporate the Parmesan and Season: This is where the magic happens for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”! Remove the skillet from the heat, or keep it on the lowest possible setting. Add 1.5 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. And yes, fresh Parmesan really does make a significant difference here! Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty, whereas fresh Parmesan melts beautifully and contributes a superior flavor. Stir the cheese into the sauce until it is completely melted and smooth. The sauce will become even thicker and incredibly creamy. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, stir in ¼ cup of fresh, finely chopped parsley. Season the sauce with ½ teaspoon of sea salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or adjust to your personal taste. Remember, the Parmesan cheese is salty, so taste before adding too much salt. Set the sauce aside while you cook the pasta and chicken, giving it an occasional stir if needed. If it gets too thick, you can always loosen it with a splash of warm chicken broth or pasta water later.

Cooking the Pasta and Searing the Chicken

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. The salt isn’t just for flavor; it also helps prevent the pasta from sticking and enhances its texture. Add your 12-16 ounces of fettuccine, linguine, or chosen pasta shape to the boiling water. Cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente – meaning “to the tooth,” perfectly cooked with a slight bite. It’s very important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce. Before draining, reserve about 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water. This “liquid gold” is your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later on. Drain the remaining pasta thoroughly but do not rinse it; rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
Sear the Marinated Chicken: While your pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet (the same one you plan to combine everything in, if it’s big enough, or a separate one) over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, almost smoking, but not quite. Carefully add the marinated chicken cutlets to the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure a good sear. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing, preventing that beautiful golden crust.
Cook Until Golden and Cooked Through: Sear the chicken for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden-brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly tender and moist chicken for your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.” If you skip this step, the juices will run out when you slice it, leaving you with dry chicken.

Bringing it All Together: The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta

Combine Pasta and Sauce: If your creamy garlic parmesan sauce has cooled slightly, gently reheat it over low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s warm and smooth again. Add the drained, cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Use tongs to gently toss the pasta, coating every strand generously with that rich, garlicky, cheesy sauce. You want every bite of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” to be coated in flavor.
Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water: This is where that reserved pasta water comes in handy! If the sauce seems too thick or looks a little dry after adding the pasta, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it incredibly silky and ensuring it clings beautifully to the noodles. Stir well after each addition until you achieve the perfect, luscious texture for your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.” You might not need all of it, or you might need a bit more; trust your judgment here.
Slice and Add the Chicken: While the pasta is mingling with the sauce, slice the rested chicken breasts into ½-inch thick strips or bite-sized pieces. You can either gently fold the sliced chicken directly into the pasta and sauce mixture in the skillet, ensuring it’s warmed through and coated, or you can arrange the chicken slices artfully on top of individual servings of the “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.” Adding it directly to the pan allows the chicken to absorb even more of that glorious sauce.
Final Touches and Garnish: Give everything one last gentle toss to combine. Taste and adjust any seasonings if necessary – perhaps a touch more salt, pepper, or even a tiny squeeze of lemon juice if it needs a lift. Serve your magnificent “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” immediately. Before serving, sprinkle generously with more freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a final flourish of fresh, chopped parsley. The vibrant green of the parsley not only adds freshness but also a beautiful visual contrast to the creamy pasta.
Enjoy Your Masterpiece: Garnish each plate with additional fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. This “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” is truly a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to make. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that incredibly rich, garlicky, and cheesy sauce is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or impressive enough for guests. Get ready for rave reviews!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious finale of our culinary journey together. I truly believe that this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with a little love and the right technique, can transform into something truly extraordinary. What makes this recipe an absolute must-try, in my humble opinion, is its unparalleled ability to deliver on all fronts: flavor, comfort, and ease. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, perfectly cooked chicken, coated in a rich, savory garlic-parmesan sauce, intertwined with your favorite pasta. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that manages to be both incredibly indulgent and wonderfully approachable for any home cook. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a hug in a bowl, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again.

I often find myself raving about its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal, something special to serve guests, or a comforting dish to brighten a rainy day, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta fits the bill perfectly. It’s that magical dish that feels fancy without any of the fuss. The aromatic garlic, the sharp, nutty Parmesan, the creamy sauce, and the perfectly cooked pasta create a harmonious blend that is utterly irresistible. I promise you, once you try this, it’s going to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. It’s not just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor simple pleasures and enjoy the art of home cooking.

Elevate Your Plate: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

Now, while this dish is absolutely stellar on its own, I love encouraging you all to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve and adapt this fantastic recipe:

Fresh Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect counterbalance to the rich pasta. The crisp, fresh greens add a delightful textural contrast and a refreshing palate cleanser.
Crusty Bread: Don’t let a single drop of that amazing sauce go to waste! A warm, crusty baguette or focaccia is ideal for soaking up every last bit of that garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Steamed Green Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans lightly steamed and seasoned make for an excellent and healthy accompaniment. They add a vibrant pop of color and extra nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

Feeling Adventurous? Try These Variations!

Pasta Power-Up: While spaghetti or fettuccine are classics, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle (bow-tie pasta) work beautifully, especially if you prefer a shape that really holds onto the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Stir in some fresh spinach or chopped kale at the very end for a nutritional boost and a burst of color. Sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers can also be fantastic additions, lending deeper, more complex flavors.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce will give it a pleasant kick without being overwhelming.
Herbacious Twist: Fresh basil or oregano, chopped and stirred in at the end, can elevate the aromatic profile of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley is always a good idea for brightness.
Lemon Zest Brightness: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can cut through the richness and add a lovely, bright finish to the sauce.
Protein Swap: For a pescatarian option, cooked shrimp can be a wonderful substitute for chicken. You could also try sliced Italian sausage (cooked first) for a heartier, spicier twist, or even pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

Your Turn! Let’s Connect Through Food!

So, what are you waiting for? I’m genuinely excited for you to give this Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta recipe a try in your own kitchen. I pour my heart into developing recipes that I truly believe will bring joy and deliciousness into your homes, and this one is a shining example. I know you’re going to love it as much as my family and I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the serving suggestions and variations I’ve shared; cooking is all about making a recipe your own!

Once you’ve whipped up this incredible meal, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you put your own unique spin on it? What were your favorite parts? How did your family and friends react? Your feedback is incredibly valuable to me, and it helps me continue to create content that you’ll adore. So, please, dive in, create some magic, and then come back and share your stories. Happy cooking, everyone! I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious adventures with this amazing recipe!