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The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You Need to Try Tonight - Featured Image

The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You Need to Try Tonight

Learn how to make delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that bring out the best flavors without fuss. I always opt for fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan — it makes a noticeable difference in taste. When it comes to chicken, I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for quick cooking, but thighs work beautifully if you want a juicier bite. Pasta-wise, I usually go with penne or rotini because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite shape. Quality ingredients don’t have to be expensive, but choosing fresh and real over processed is what keeps this dish wholesome and delicious.

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions: If you want a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a mix of milk and cream cheese. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it brown.
  4. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
  7. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, recipe, cooking, food