Description
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate creamy comfort food—tender chicken, rich garlic flavor, and a cheesy Parmesan sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine recommended)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return chicken to the pan, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Garnish with parsley or Italian seasoning and serve warm.
Notes
- Add baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or go meatless with mushrooms or broccoli.
- Use mozzarella or extra Parmesan for a richer sauce.
- Stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
