Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; Salt, for water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this deliciously creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce for a meal that's sure to impress.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-20T23:21:33.370Z

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it's a dish that brings joy to the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan
Perfectly cooked pasta that absorbs all the flavors
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights

      

A Flavorful Delight

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite. The rich combination of garlic and parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that clings to the fettuccine, ensuring that each strand is bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate comfort food with a gourmet twist.

The use of heavy cream in the sauce adds a velvety texture that elevates the dish, making it ideal for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. Coupled with perfectly sautéed chicken, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily replicate at home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta fits the bill. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a versatile dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. Plus, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to choice for busy schedules.

You can also easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and color, or swap the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein to cater to different dietary preferences.

Tips for Success

To ensure your pasta is cooked perfectly, always salt the water generously before boiling. This enhances the flavor of the pasta and helps it absorb the sauce better. It's also a good tip to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; this starchy water can be added to the sauce if you need to adjust the consistency later.

When sautéing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to achieve a nice golden brown color. This step is crucial for developing flavor and ensuring that the chicken remains juicy.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
Salt, for water

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb chicken breast, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy sauce may thicken as it cools, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Although the texture may change slightly after thawing, it still tastes delicious. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A simple Caesar or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Additionally, consider serving with crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Wine lovers may want to complement their dinner with a glass of white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay can enhance the flavors of the dish and elevate your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any pasta of your choice, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just reheat and add the pasta before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

It pairs well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.