Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe (Easy & Delicious)
Make the best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in just 30 minutes! This easy homemade recipe features juicy chicken, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce.
EASY & SIMPLEQUICK & EASYDINNERITALIAN
8/1/20264 min read
Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Tender seasoned chicken is tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a silky homemade garlic Parmesan sauce that's ready in about 30 minutes. It's an easy weeknight dinner that's guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
12 ounces penne pasta (or fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni)
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
3 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
Fresh chopped parsley
Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium.
Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 3–4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time until completely melted.
Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
Add the cooked pasta and gently toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
If needed, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Recipe Tips
Freshly grated Parmesan melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese.
Don't overcook the pasta—it should be al dente.
Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
Spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
Bacon: Stir in crispy chopped bacon before serving.
Shrimp: Replace the chicken with sautéed shrimp.
Low Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or steamed broccoli.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving
Nutrient Amount
Calories 715
Protein 39g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fat 43g
Saturated Fat 22g
Cholesterol 165mg
Sodium 760mg
Fiber 2g
Sugar 3g
Calcium 360mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Closing Remarks
If you're looking for a restaurant-quality meal that's easy enough for a busy weeknight, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta delivers every time. The tender, perfectly seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, creating a dish that's comforting, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Don't forget to garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!
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