Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this rich and creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta that is sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.

Jessica Brown

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:31:00.054Z

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious garlic cream sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy garlic flavor that comforts the soul
  • Perfectly cooked pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully
  • Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
  • Quick and simple to prepare for busy weeknights

A Comforting Classic

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. The rich, creamy sauce enveloping the perfectly cooked fettuccine creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. The addition of garlic and Parmesan adds depth and a comforting touch, making it an ideal meal for any night of the week. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet meal that feels indulgent yet attainable. The creamy sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or different proteins based on your preferences. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is how quickly it comes together. With minimal prep time and cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes. The key is to multitask; while the pasta cooks, you can focus on preparing the chicken and the sauce. This efficiency is perfect for those hectic weekdays when you crave something delicious but don't have hours to spare.

Moreover, this dish requires only basic kitchen skills, making it accessible for cooks of all levels. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, you'll find joy in creating this comforting meal. With just a skillet and a pot, you can easily master this dish and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills.

Perfect for Customization

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. The creamy sauce serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to get creative with your add-ins. Consider adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp or grilled vegetables to cater to different dietary preferences, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or family meals.

This adaptability not only enhances the taste but also helps you incorporate seasonal produce into your diet. As the seasons change, so can your pasta dish, ensuring you always have a fresh and exciting meal option at your fingertips. The ability to personalize this recipe makes it a favorite among families and friends.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta!

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

To achieve the perfect al dente pasta, be sure to follow the package instructions and taste the fettuccine a minute or two before the time is up. A little bit of bite in the pasta will help it hold up against the creamy sauce, creating a delightful texture that enhances your dining experience.

Adding salt to the boiling water is essential as it enhances the pasta's flavor. Don't be afraid to season generously; this will make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your dish. After cooking, remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as it can be used to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the pasta from drying out, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating, which will help restore its creamy texture and flavor.

When reheating, use a stovetop pan over low heat to gently warm the pasta while stirring frequently. This method ensures even heating and prevents the sauce from separating, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal even after the initial serving.

Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances your dining experience.

For beverage pairings, consider a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a fruity rosé. These wines will enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering them, creating a harmonious balance on your palate. Enjoy this delightful meal with your favorite drink for a truly satisfying experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta of your choice like penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta dish.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in this rich and creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta that is sure to impress your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Jessica Brown

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken and Pasta

  1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  4. Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce

  1. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  2. 1 cup heavy cream
  3. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  5. Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice.

Step 03

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until the sauce is smooth.

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 18g