Ultimate Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Quick & Flavorful

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Ah, a culinary symphony that consistently earns rave reviews and happy sighs around dinner tables everywhere. Have you ever craved a meal that feels both incredibly indulgent and surprisingly comforting at the same time? That’s precisely the magic this dish brings to your plate. While its specific origins don’t trace back centuries to ancient Italian trattorias, this delightful concoction has firmly established itself as a beloved modern classic, embodying the best of hearty American home cooking with a sophisticated nod to Italian-inspired flavors. It’s a testament to how simple, yet profound, ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.

I find immense joy in how this recipe expertly marries the robust punch of garlic, the rich, umami depth of Parmesan cheese, and the succulent tenderness of chicken, all lovingly brought together by perfectly al dente pasta in a luscious, creamy sauce. People absolutely adore this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta not just for its unforgettable taste and satisfying textures, but also for its wonderful versatility and the sheer ease with which such an impressive and heartwarming meal can come to fruition. It’s the ultimate weeknight hero and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering, promising pure deliciousness with every forkful.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 – 2 lbs total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb (450g) fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
• For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6-8 cloves garlic, minced (I love my garlic, so I go for 8!)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium is best)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Prepping Your Ingredients for the Best Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

1. First things first, let’s get organized! Cooking is so much more enjoyable when everything is prepped and ready to go. Take your chicken breasts and pat them really dry with paper towels. This is a super important step because it helps create a beautiful sear and crisp exterior on your chicken, which adds so much texture and flavor to our Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Once dry, place them on a clean cutting board.
2. Next, prepare your chicken seasoning blend. In a small bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon of paprika. Give it a good mix. Sprinkle this seasoning liberally over both sides of your chicken breasts, making sure to rub it in gently so every inch is coated. Set the seasoned chicken aside.
3. Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of our sauce: garlic! Peel and mince your 6-8 cloves of garlic. I personally believe you can never have too much garlic in a creamy garlic Parmesan pasta dish, so I tend to lean towards the higher end of that range. Fine mincing is key here, as we want that intense garlic flavor to permeate the sauce without large chunks.
4. If you’re using fresh parsley for garnish, go ahead and give it a rinse and chop it finely. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re ready to serve this delicious meal.
5. Finally, measure out your heavy cream, chicken broth, and freshly grate your Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts much more smoothly and tastes far superior to pre-shredded varieties, so I highly recommend taking this extra step for the ultimate creamy sauce for your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Having these ready will make the sauce-making process seamless.

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

1. Place a large skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers slightly. You want it hot enough to create a nice sear without smoking.
2. Carefully place your seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your chicken breasts are very large, you might want to cook them one at a time or in batches to ensure they brown evenly.
3. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust to form. This crust is where a lot of the flavor lives! Resist the urge to move the chicken around too much during this initial searing phase; let it develop that gorgeous color.
4. Once both sides are nicely seared, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook for an additional 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Cooking it covered helps keep the chicken moist and ensures it cooks through evenly.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes. This resting period is absolutely crucial for juicy chicken. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken that will be the perfect complement to our rich Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta.
6. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain into thin strips or dice it into bite-sized pieces, according to your preference. Set aside for later.

Boiling the Pasta Al Dente

1. While your chicken is cooking or resting, it’s time to get the pasta going. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Using a big pot ensures the pasta has enough room to move freely and cook evenly.
2. Once the water is vigorously boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt. Don’t be shy with the salt here; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself, and it makes a huge difference in the final taste of your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. The water should taste like the sea.
3. Add the 1 lb of fettuccine or penne pasta to the boiling water. Give it a good stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
4. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, subtracting 1-2 minutes from the suggested cooking time. We want the pasta to be “al dente,” which means it’s still firm to the bite but cooked through. It will finish cooking slightly in the sauce, so undercooking it just a touch is ideal.
5. Before draining, here’s a professional secret that will elevate your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta: carefully scoop out about 1 to 1 ½ cups of the starchy pasta cooking water into a heat-proof mug or bowl. This cloudy, salty water is liquid gold for our sauce. It contains starches that help emulsify and thicken the sauce, making it incredibly creamy and luscious.
6. Drain the remaining pasta in a colander, but do not rinse it. Rinsing pasta washes away the starches we need for the sauce to cling to, and we want every bit of that delicious sauce on our noodles!

Crafting the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in (don’t clean it! Those browned bits, or “fond,” are packed with flavor), return it to medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. The residual chicken flavor will infuse beautifully into our sauce base.
2. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add your minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burnt garlic turns bitter and can ruin the entire sauce. We want it golden and aromatic, not dark brown.
3. If you’re opting for a slightly thicker, more robust sauce for your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, now is the time to add the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter, and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will help thicken our sauce. It should form a paste and smell slightly nutty.
4. Gradually pour in the 1 ½ cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly.
5. Next, pour in the 1 ½ cups of heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon. If you skipped the flour, it might take a minute or two longer to thicken naturally.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat. This is important for preventing the Parmesan from clumping. Slowly add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. The residual heat from the sauce will be enough to melt the cheese beautifully.
7. Season the sauce with ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re adding them. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to make it perfect for your palate. Remember, the reserved pasta water is also salty, so factor that in.

Bringing It All Together: Assembling Your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

1. Now for the grand finale – bringing all the components together to create that irresistible Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta! Add the drained pasta directly to the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce in the skillet.
2. Add the sliced or diced cooked chicken to the skillet with the pasta and sauce.
3. This is where that reserved pasta water comes in handy. Begin by adding about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together vigorously using tongs. The pasta water will help the sauce cling to the noodles, thin it out to the perfect consistency if it’s too thick, and help bind all the flavors together.
4. If the sauce still seems too thick, or you want it even creamier and more luxurious, continue adding the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon or two at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Keep tossing; you’ll see the sauce transform into a glossy, beautiful coating on your pasta.
5. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta! There’s nothing quite like a freshly made, warm bowl of this comforting dish.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Every Time

1. Don’t Rush the Sear: A good sear on your chicken isn’t just for looks; it locks in moisture and develops deep, savory flavors that are essential for a truly outstanding Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Make sure your pan is hot enough and don’t overcrowd it.
2. Fresh Parmesan is Key: I cannot stress this enough. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly, leading to a grainy or clumpy sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts like a dream and contributes a far superior flavor profile.
3. The Magic of Pasta Water: That starchy, salty water from boiling your pasta is your best friend when making a creamy sauce. It helps emulsify the sauce, making it incredibly silky and ensuring it adheres beautifully to every strand of pasta. Always reserve at least a cup!
4. Taste and Adjust: Every cook’s palate is different, and ingredients can vary in saltiness. Always taste your sauce before combining everything and adjust the salt, pepper, or even a tiny squeeze of lemon juice if it needs a little brightness.
5. Spice it Up: For those who love a bit of heat, don’t shy away from adding a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it sautés, or stir them into the sauce. It adds a wonderful depth without overpowering the dish.
6. Serving Suggestions: While this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, or some crusty garlic bread to sop up every last drop of that amazing sauce.
7. Storage and Reheating: Leftovers of this creamy pasta dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and bring it back to its creamy consistency. Microwaving can sometimes make the sauce separate, but a gentle stir can often bring it back together.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I genuinely believe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. I’m talking about a dish that effortlessly marries tender, juicy chicken with a rich, aromatic garlic parmesan sauce, coating every strand of pasta in pure, unadulterated comfort. It’s the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes and savor each bite, a true testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. From the moment the garlic hits the pan, filling your home with an irresistible aroma, to the final swirl of cheese melting into that creamy concoction, every stage of this recipe is designed to bring joy and deliciousness to your table. Trust me, the sheer satisfaction of creating something so profoundly flavorful with such ease is incredibly rewarding. It’s robust enough to satisfy the heartiest appetites yet refined enough to impress even the most discerning palate, striking that coveted balance between everyday comfort food and a dish worthy of a special occasion. We are truly talking about a contender for your new favorite weeknight meal, a dish that delivers maximum flavor with surprisingly minimal fuss, making it an absolute game-changer for busy evenings.

Now, let’s talk about enhancing your experience with this incredible Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. While it’s utterly divine on its own, there are so many delightful ways to serve and adapt it to your taste or occasion. For a classic, wholesome meal, I love pairing it with a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed simply with a lemon vinaigrette; the fresh acidity cuts beautifully through the richness of the pasta, creating a wonderfully balanced plate. A side of warm, crusty artisan bread, perhaps a ciabatta or a sourdough baguette, is also an absolute must – perfect for soaking up every last drop of that glorious sauce! If you’re looking to add more vegetables, roasted asparagus spears or steamed broccoli florets make excellent companions, adding both color and nutrients without overpowering the main event. And for beverages? A light-bodied white wine like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement it beautifully, or for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a hint of lemon or lime provides a refreshing contrast.

But the beauty of this recipe truly lies in its incredible versatility. Don’t hesitate to make it your own! Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables; wilted spinach or sautéed mushrooms would integrate seamlessly into the sauce, adding another layer of flavor and texture. If you’re a fan of a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the garlic will add a delightful kick that elevates the dish without overwhelming it. For a different protein twist, succulent shrimp or even flaky salmon could be substituted for the chicken, offering a wonderful seafood variation. And cheese lovers, rejoice! While Parmesan is king here, a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella or a dollop of creamy ricotta folded in at the end can add an extra dimension of decadence. You could also try different pasta shapes – penne, rigatoni, or even orecchiette would work beautifully to cradle that luscious sauce. For those with dietary considerations, this recipe is quite adaptable: gluten-free pasta works perfectly, and for a dairy-free version, a high-quality plant-based cream and nutritional yeast can offer a surprisingly delicious alternative, maintaining that coveted creamy texture and savory depth.

Ultimately, my biggest hope is that you feel inspired and excited to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try in your own kitchen. I truly believe that once you experience the ease of preparation and the explosion of flavors, it will quickly become a cherished favorite. Cooking should be an adventure, a source of joy and creativity, and this dish embodies all of that. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the magic happen. When you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you add your own unique twist? Was it a hit with your family or friends? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your funny kitchen anecdotes. Your feedback and stories are what truly bring these recipes to life for me and for other readers. Tag me, comment, or simply send a message – knowing that you’ve enjoyed creating and savoring this dish brings me immense satisfaction. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious journey with this truly spectacular pasta creation!

Ultimate Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Quick & Flavorful

Have you ever craved a meal that feels both incredibly indulgent and surprisingly comforting at the same time? That’s precisely the magic this dish brings to your plate. This delightful concoction has firmly established itself as a beloved modern classic, embodying the best of hearty home cooking with a sophisticated nod to Italian-inspired flavors. It’s a testament to how simple, yet profound, ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
35 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Breast
• 2 tbsp Costabile Brand Olive Oil
• 1.5 tsp OliveNation Paprika
• 1.5 tsp Oregano
• 1 tsp OliveNation Garlic Powder
• 0.5 tsp Thyme
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 12 oz Gluten Free Farfalle Pasta
• 1 tbsp Salt (for pasta water)
• 4 tbsp Butter
• 2 tsp dry shallots (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off)
• 2 tbsp Gluten Free 1:1 Flour (optional)
• 0.5 cup Chicken Broth
• 3 cups Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 0.5 tsp Salt (for sauce)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (for sauce)
• Pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra Grated Parmesan Cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat chicken breasts dry; season with 0.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1.5 tsp paprika, 1.5 tsp oregano, and 0.5 tsp thyme. Finely chop fresh parsley. Grate Parmesan cheese. Measure out cream, broth, and dry shallots.
2. Step 2
   Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear seasoned chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-12 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice or dice chicken.
3. Step 3
   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp salt. Cook 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta according to package directions, subtracting 1-2 minutes for al dente. Reserve 1 to 1.5 cups starchy pasta water before draining pasta. Do not rinse pasta.
4. Step 4
   In the same skillet (don’t clean), melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 2 tsp dry shallots and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. If thickening, sprinkle in 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in 0.5 cup chicken broth until smooth, then add 3 cups heavy cream and 2 tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, then whisk in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with 0.5 tsp salt, 0.25 tsp black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust.
5. Step 5
   Add drained pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce in the skillet. Add 0.5 cup reserved pasta water and toss vigorously. Add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed, until sauce reaches desired consistency and clings to pasta. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.