I’ll never forget the time my college roommate, bless her heart, tried to impress her new crush with a fancy dinner and completely forgot to season the chicken; thankfully, I swooped in with my quick and easy recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This recipe is a total lifesaver, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe even a crush or two) because this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is about to become your new go-to meal!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Okay, friend, let’s be real: we all need those recipes that are reliable, delicious, and don’t require a culinary degree to master. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ticks all those boxes and then some! But what specifically makes it so special? Let me break it down for you:
- Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, tops. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and perfectly cooked chicken creates a flavor profile that rivals your favorite Italian spot.
- Versatile: Easily customizable to your liking! Swap out the pasta, add veggies, or adjust the seasonings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Seriously, who doesn’t love pasta with creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken? It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
- Uses Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry and fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to whip up this culinary masterpiece. Don’t worry, it’s a fairly straightforward list!
- Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape. I personally love penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti for this dish.
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds, boneless and skinless. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer!
- Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is key for that authentic flavor!
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated. Please, oh please, don’t use the pre-grated stuff in the green can. Freshly grated Parmesan makes a HUGE difference.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup. This is what makes the sauce so incredibly rich and creamy.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (1/2 cup). Because butter makes everything better!
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. Adds a blend of classic Italian herbs.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions (With My Expert Tips!)
Alright, let’s get cooking! I’m going to walk you through each step, sharing my insider tips and tricks along the way to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a smashing success.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, get that pasta cooking! Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold and will help thicken the sauce and make it extra creamy. Trust me on this one!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, let’s get the chicken ready. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is important because it helps the chicken get a nice sear. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes. Then, slice or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
My Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! If you’re cooking a lot of chicken, do it in batches. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now for the magic! In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and the sliced or diced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy every single bite!
Variations and Substitutions
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add Veggies: Sauté some spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes with the garlic for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Use Different Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu.
- Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with adding other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
- Garlic Herb Bread Crumbs: Top with toasted garlic herb bread crumbs for an added layer of flavor and texture.
If you are looking for something similar, but with a bit more kick, you can’t go wrong with this Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Recipe. It’s another guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is absolutely perfect:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: I can’t stress this enough! Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which prevents it from melting properly and can result in a grainy sauce.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic is bitter and will ruin the flavor of the sauce. Keep a close eye on it and sauté it over medium heat until fragrant.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken and the sauce with plenty of salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is your secret weapon for creating a creamy, luscious sauce.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served fresh, as the sauce will thicken as it sits.
Craving something else cheesy and delicious? Why not try Creamy Parmesan Baked Zucchini as a side?
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
While this dish is best served fresh, you can definitely prepare some of the components ahead of time to save time during the week. Here’s how:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente, drain it, and toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken, slice or dice it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make the Sauce: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce over low heat before adding the pasta and chicken.
To store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.
This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is another great option for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorite options:
- Garlic Bread: Because you can never have too much garlic!
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are all delicious and healthy options.
- Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
- Air Fryer Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: For an extra indulgent side dish, try these crispy and flavorful potatoes.
For a different take on a creamy chicken dish, check out this recipe for Chicken Pot Pie Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I know you might have a few questions swirling around, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones I get about this recipe:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great option. Just shred or dice it and add it to the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
A: While you can freeze it, I don’t recommend it. The sauce tends to separate and become grainy when thawed. However, if you’re determined to freeze it, make sure to use an airtight container and thaw it completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: While you can use milk, the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. If you do use milk, I recommend adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.
If you are looking for something that tastes like restaurant quality, I strongly urge you to try this Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe You Can Make At Home!
More Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you loved this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken Air Fryer
- Parmesan Chicken With Garlic Cream Sauce
- Garlic Parmesan Pasta Yeem
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Penne With Parmesan Cream Sauce
Ready to Make Some Magic?
So there you have it, my friend! Everything you need to create a truly unforgettable Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. I know you’re going to absolutely nail this recipe. Get in the kitchen, have some fun, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness you’re about to create! Bon appétit!
What are some variations I can make to the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe?
You can add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes, use different protein like shrimp or sausage, make it lighter with half-and-half instead of heavy cream, add lemon juice, try different cheeses, or add garlic herb bread crumbs.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta, prepare the chicken, and make the sauce ahead of time. Cook the pasta al dente and toss with olive oil. Cook and slice or dice the chicken. The sauce can also be made ahead. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
What kind of pasta works best for this dish?
The recipe recommends using penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, but you can use your favorite pasta shape.
Why is freshly grated Parmesan cheese important for this recipe?
Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which prevents it from melting properly and can result in a grainy sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan makes a HUGE difference.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes. Then, slice or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and the sliced or diced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
