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garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish topped with fresh parsley and shredded parmesan cheese

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken, savory garlic, rich parmesan cheese, and your favorite pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a romantic date night, this versatile recipe delivers bold flavors and creamy textures that everyone will love.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: To cook the chicken and prepare the sauce.
  • Tongs: For flipping the chicken and tossing the pasta in the sauce.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: To stir the sauce and scrape up browned bits from the skillet.
  • Whisk: To blend the parmesan cheese into the sauce for a smooth consistency.
  • Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
  • Cutting Board: For slicing chicken and chopping parsley.
  • Knife: For cutting the chicken into slices or cubes.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure liquids, seasonings, and cheese.
  • Cheese Grater: For freshly grating parmesan cheese.
  • Serving Dish or Plate: To serve the finished pasta.

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large chicken breasts sliced or cubed
  • 12 ounces pasta fettuccine, penne, or your choice
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  • Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese over low heat until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  • Combine Pasta and Sauce

Notes

For a Spicy Twist: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
Reheating Tips: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
This comforting, crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for any occasion—try it tonight and fall in love with the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan!
Keyword Chicken Pasta Recipe, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, Easy Pasta Dinner, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Italian-American Cuisine, Parmesan Cream Sauce, Quick Dinner Recipes