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
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)
Instructions
Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Toss cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning.
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.
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Whisk in parmesan cheese, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss until pasta is coated in sauce.
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