Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!)

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce that envelops each bite. This recipe is easy to follow and takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli) (or penne/rotini)
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for a velvety sauce)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing & thinning)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided use (half for chicken))
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain. Meanwhile, pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp of butter and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate.

2. Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes; cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning; let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low, and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.

3. Toss & Serve: Return the chicken (with its juices) to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything gently to coat. Add splashes of reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serve this delicious dish hot with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese on top. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This pasta can also be an excellent main course at family gatherings or casual dinner parties.

How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a nice sear.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting texture.
• If you like more spice, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s a secret ingredient for the perfect sauce consistency.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe. Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for more color and nutrition. You can also substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or even use a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the chicken and pasta before serving.