creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta

Introduction

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your family? This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is ready in just 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknights. With tender chicken, rich parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

📝 Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

For detailed tips on cooking pasta perfectly, see America’s Test Kitchen pasta guide.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes).

Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F / 75°C).
4. For advice on cooking chicken safely, check USDA Food Safety Guidelines.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
2. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Gradually whisk in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in Italian seasoning and adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. For tips on choosing the best Parmesan cheese, see Serious Eats guide.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, tossing well.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Optional: serve with garlic bread and a green salad.
4. You can also check out our Quick recipes for another easy weeknight dinner option.

💡 Tips for the Best Pasta

Adjust sauce consistency with pasta water.

Cook pasta al dente for the best bite.

Use freshly grated Parmesan (pre-shredded won’t melt smoothly).

🍽 Serving Suggestions

This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with:

• Garlic Bread – for soaking up sauce.
• Fresh Green Salad – balances the richness.
• White Wine – Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc works beautifully.

🔄 Recipe Variations

• Add veggies: Spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Switch proteins: Try shrimp, sausage, or even grilled salmon.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes for heat.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water for best results.

🙋 FAQ

Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less thick.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can prep chicken and garlic earlier to save time.

Q: Does it freeze well?
A: Cream sauces don’t freeze perfectly, but you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately, then make fresh sauce when reheating.

🏁 Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is proof that weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or complicated. With simple ingredients, a rich sauce, and just 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please. Serve it with garlic bread, salad, and wine for the perfect dinner experience.