Let’s talk about comfort food—because honestly, who doesn’t crave a hearty pasta dish now and then? Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that ticks all the boxes: creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Picture tender chicken pieces tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce that’s so good, you’ll be scraping the plate clean. For busy nights, check out this Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe—it’s quick, flavorful, and makes a great meal prep option.
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy pasta dish that combines savory garlic, melted Parmesan, and tender chicken for a flavor-packed meal. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is actually super simple to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
This dish is beloved for its versatility—you can dress it up for special occasions or keep it casual as a satisfying comfort meal. Pair it with a warm bowl of Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup for the ultimate comfort food combination.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are a must for that bold garlic flavor.
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type—penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the richest, creamiest sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that velvety texture.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Butter: For sautéing the garlic and building the base of the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- Salt and Pepper: Basics that bring all the flavors together.
Optional add-ins:
- Spinach: Stirred in for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed and added for an earthy twist.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling your favorite pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as this can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Everything: Slice or dice the cooked chicken, then return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water, if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
The Best Chicken for This Recipe
The type of chicken you use can make or break this dish. Here’s how to choose and prepare it perfectly:
- Chicken Breasts vs. Thighs: Both work well, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving if overcooked. Chicken breasts, on the other hand, offer a leaner option with a firmer texture.
- Searing Tips: For golden, flavorful chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Shredded or Diced?: Diced chicken integrates better with the pasta, while shredded chicken creates a heartier, layered texture.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Not all pasta is created equal when it comes to this recipe. Here’s how to make the best choice:
- Best Types for Creamy Sauces: Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni are excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Options: Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed—just be mindful of the cooking time, as some alternatives can overcook quickly.
- Cooking Tips: Always salt your pasta water generously; it should taste like the sea! This step infuses the pasta with flavor from the inside out.
Customizing Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is. You can tweak the recipe to match your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Making It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based chicken substitutes for a similar texture.
- Adding Veggies or Mushrooms: Sautéed spinach or mushrooms add depth to the dish while boosting its nutritional value.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, or smoked paprika for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Upgrades: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for an extra creamy finish.
With a few simple changes, you can make this recipe your own every time you cook it.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here’s how to create a complete meal:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- For Special Occasions: Plate the pasta in a large serving dish, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, and top with parsley for a stunning presentation.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to save some garlic bread for soaking up the leftover sauce—trust me, it’s worth it!
Time-Saving Hacks
Life’s busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip a delicious home-cooked meal. These hacks will save you time without sacrificing flavor:
- Using Rotisserie Chicken: Skip cooking raw chicken altogether by shredding a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
- Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Chop your garlic, grate your cheese, and portion your cream and broth ahead of time.
- One-Pot Method: Cook the pasta directly in the sauce instead of boiling it separately. This saves time and infuses the pasta with even more flavor.
- Freezing Portions: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and satisfying meals later.
A few smart shortcuts can make this dish even more convenient for busy weeknights.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! This pasta dish stores and reheats beautifully. Follow these tips to keep it as delicious as when it was first made:
- Storing Leftovers: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating:
- On the Stovetop: Heat the pasta gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to revive the sauce.
- In the Microwave: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
Pro Tip: Avoid overheating the sauce, as it can separate. Low and slow is the way to go!
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you need to know about the nutritional breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (per serving):
- Calories: 450–500
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, this dish has it all. Here’s why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is destined to be a staple in your kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy flavor is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Meal Prep Champion: Make a big batch, and you’re set for lunches or dinners for the week.
- Customizable: Whether you’re adding veggies, switching up the pasta, or dialing up the spice, this recipe adapts to your preferences.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes like it came from a fancy Italian restaurant.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Why is it called “marry me pasta”?
The name “marry me pasta” is often given to irresistible pasta dishes like this one because they’re so good, they might just win you a marriage proposal!
What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and Parmesan?
Chicken parmigiana (or chicken parm) typically involves breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, while Parmesan in this recipe refers to the rich, creamy sauce made with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Is chicken ok with pasta?
Absolutely! Chicken and pasta are a perfect pairing, offering a great balance of protein and carbs, making this dish hearty and satisfying.
How do you get breading to stick to chicken parmesan?
To get breading to stick, dredge the chicken in flour first, dip it into beaten eggs, and then coat it in breadcrumbs. This layering ensures the breading adheres firmly during cooking.
Why is mozzarella used for chicken parm?
Mozzarella is used for chicken parm because it melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that perfectly complements the crispy breaded chicken.
Which is more fattening, chicken parm or eggplant parm?
Chicken parm is typically more fattening due to the chicken’s breading and higher protein content. Eggplant parm can be lighter, especially if baked instead of fried, though both can vary depending on preparation methods.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate creamy and savory comfort food. Made with tender chicken, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese, it’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach, mushrooms, red pepper flakes, parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Adjust with reserved pasta water.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, creamy pasta, chicken dinner, quick recipes
There you have it—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend get-together, this dish will always deliver. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every creamy, cheesy bite.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family—they’ll thank you later!