Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a true comfort dish with tender chicken pieces, rich and creamy sauce, and a cheesy garlic flavor that fills the kitchen with the best aroma. This pasta is coated in a luscious Parmesan sauce that’s smooth and full of garlic goodness, making every bite so satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels fancy but is actually really easy to put together. The creamy sauce comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. I especially enjoy using freshly grated Parmesan and plenty of garlic because it makes all the difference in flavor. This pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner after a busy day.
For serving, I usually add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a little extra Parmesan on top. It pairs wonderfully with a green salad or some steamed veggies on the side. One of my favorite things is how leftovers taste even better the next day, so it’s a great recipe to make ahead and enjoy later.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts gives you tender, juicy pieces that cook quickly. You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and more moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes the sauce smooth and flavorful. Avoid pre-grated versions when possible, as they don’t melt as well. For a substitute, Pecorino Romano or Asiago work nicely.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or milk with a small amount of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that bright, pungent flavor. Mince it finely to release maximum aroma. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best here.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes (optional): They add a tangy, sweet depth. Feel free to skip or replace with roasted red peppers for a different twist.
How Do I Get the Chicken Nice and Golden Without Overcooking?
Cooking chicken for this dish is important since it’s the star protein. Here’s how I get a perfect golden sear while keeping it juicy inside:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps it brown better.
- Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan. Give pieces space to cook evenly.
- Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side before flipping.
- Cook until the outside is golden brown and the inside is no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes total).
- Remove chicken to rest while you make the sauce, so it stays juicy.
These small steps make a big difference in flavor and texture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to cook the pasta until al dente, making sure it’s easy to toss with the sauce.
- Skillet or frying pan – ideal for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helpful for measuring ingredients like cream, cheese, and broth.
- Whisk or spoon – lets you blend the sauce smoothly and stir everything together easily.
- Colander or strainer – for draining the pasta once it’s cooked.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon or pancetta instead of chicken for a smokier, richer flavor.
- Add sautéed spinach, kale, or mushrooms for more veggies and earthiness.
- Stir in a splash of white wine or lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- Top with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and pasta, then another 10-15 minutes making the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and combining everything. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Making the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add crushed red pepper flakes and sun-dried tomatoes if you’re using them. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.
4. Combining the Ingredients:
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with a little more salt and pepper to taste. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce.
5. Finishing Up:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick. Stir in the chopped parsley, then remove from the heat.
6. Serving:
Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta right away. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry to get a nice sear when cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?
Definitely! You can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce will be a bit less rich and creamy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or microwave to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream or broth while reheating if needed.
What Pasta Works Best in This Dish?
Linguine or spaghetti are great choices because they hold the sauce well. You can also try fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta shape depending on what you have on hand.
