Name: Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini); 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 4–5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Let’s talk about the kind of dinner that makes you want to light a candle—even if it’s a Tuesday. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is creamy, comforting, and absolutely swoon-worthy. If you’re a fan of cozy meals that come together with minimal fuss but major flavor, this one’s going straight to the top of your recipe box.

This dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic cream sauce that rivals any Italian-American pasta you’d find at a restaurant. The best part? It’s an easy weeknight dinner that takes about 40 minutes from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

The garlic cream sauce is silky, rich, and loaded with flavor.
You only need one skillet and one pot—yes, we love a low-effort cleanup.
Comfort food vibes meet Italian-American pasta perfection.
Easy to customize with your favorite pasta shapes or spice level.
Feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your twisted pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
Season & cook the chicken: While the pasta cooks, toss the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1½ tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
Start the garlic cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Build the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cheese it up: Whisk in the parmesan cheese, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Combine & finish: Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is generously coated in that creamy, garlicky goodness.
Serve & garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and more parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

Tips for Pasta Perfection

Freshly grated parmesan melts better than pre-shredded—totally worth the effort.
Don’t overcook the garlic—30 seconds is enough to unlock its flavor.
If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up.
Prefer a lighter option? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Want extra veggies? Stir in some spinach or roasted broccoli at the end.

Why This Creamy Chicken Pasta Is Always a Hit

This dish became a go-to in our house after a particularly hectic Monday. I needed something fast but comforting, and I had a bunch of garlic, butter, and chicken in the fridge. One skillet and a few tweaks later, my family was asking for seconds and the kitchen smelled like an Italian bistro. Now, whenever I want something cozy but easy, this is the recipe I reach for.

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This pasta is a showstopper all on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans. Garlic bread (because more garlic is always a good idea) makes a great side. A glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade doesn’t hurt either.

How to Store Leftovers

Let the pasta cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Not ideal for freezing due to the dairy—but it’s so good, leftovers rarely last long!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Rotini, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead and combine everything just before serving.

Is there a lighter version?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter take.

Does this count as Italian-American pasta?

It sure does—garlic, cream, and parmesan are a match made in Italian-American heaven.

Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself to a restaurant-style meal at home, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy chicken pasta that delivers every time. Rich garlic cream sauce, juicy chicken, and pasta you’ll twirl again and again—it’s the kind of dish you’ll crave on repeat.

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