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 ounces fettuccine pasta; 1 pound chicken breast, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Home-Style Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe! It’s a delightfully rich and flavorful dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes. The creamy sauce made from garlic, Parmesan cheese, and just a hint of chicken broth coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, the tender chicken adds protein to make it a satisfying meal. Whether it’s an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe always impresses. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the amazing flavors!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:37:36.071Z

When I first tried making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I was searching for a meal that would satisfy my cravings for comfort food. The combination of garlic and cheese has always been one of my favorites, and this dish does not disappoint! I ensure to sauté the garlic just enough to release its flavor without burning, as that tip really elevates the overall taste.

The magic happens when the cheese melts into the chicken broth, creating a luxurious sauce that clings to the pasta. I love garnishing it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness. You simply can't go wrong with this crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Perfectly cooked chicken that adds protein and flavor
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables

Perfecting the Pasta

The key to achieving the ideal texture in your fettuccine is to cook it al dente, which means it should be tender with a slight bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the creamy sauce. Keep an eye on it while boiling, starting to test for doneness about 1-2 minutes before the package's suggested cooking time. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly once it’s added to the sauce.

After draining the fettuccine, reserve a cup of the cooking water. This starchy water can be a lifesaver if your sauce is too thick later on. Just add a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency, ensuring that the pasta and sauce maintain a perfect harmony.

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

For optimal flavor, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil until it's golden and fragrant but be cautious not to let it burn; this will impart a bitter taste to your sauce. Stir continuously and keep the heat at medium to avoid overcooking. This step is essential for bringing out the depth of garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Parmesan.

When adding the heavy cream, allow it to gently simmer rather than boil vigorously. High heat can separate the cream and ruin the sauce's smooth texture. As you mix in the Parmesan, choose a good quality cheese for maximum creaminess and flavor. Grating it fresh ensures it melts evenly without clumping.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Main Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
1 pound chicken breast, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Gather all your ingredients before starting to streamline your cooking process!

Instructions

Cooking 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. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring occasionally. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving!

Pro Tips

Adding some crushed red pepper flakes can give a lovely kick to the dish if you enjoy some heat!

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

If you don’t have fettuccine, other pasta shapes like penne or linguine can work equally well. The sauce clings beautifully to any pasta; just ensure the cooking time is adjusted for different shapes. For a lighter version, consider swapping out heavy cream for half-and-half or a milk alternative, such as coconut milk, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly.

For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium chicken broth can replace regular chicken broth in the sauce. Alternatively, vegetable broth provides a flavorful, plant-based option without sacrificing taste. Experimenting with different herbs or spices can also uplift the dish; a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness to the meal. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon before serving enhances the flavors without overpowering the dish’s creamy goodness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta cooking water or additional cream to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Reheat gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring continuously until warmed through, avoiding high temperatures that could separate the sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a milk alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.

→ How can I add vegetables to this recipe?

You can easily include vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes. Just add them when cooking the chicken for some added nutrition!

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead and then combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

Fettuccine works beautifully, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer—penne or farfalle would also be great!