Description
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a dreamy weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, twisted pasta, and a silky garlic cream sauce. Comforting and indulgent yet easy to prepare, it’s the kind of Italian-American dish that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
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2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
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1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
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3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
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4–5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 1/2 cups heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Toss cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
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Heat 1 1/2 Tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Whisk in parmesan cheese, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss until pasta is coated in sauce.
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Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
Freshly grated parmesan melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Avoid overcooking garlic—30 seconds is enough.
Loosen thick sauce with a splash of cream or broth.
Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add spinach or roasted broccoli for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta / Dinner
- Method: One-pot / Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian-American