Introduction
Are you looking for a meal that is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor but easy to make? This Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for you! It’s a dish that feels fancy but is actually very simple to cook. With tender chicken, a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal the whole family will love.
Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is quick, delicious, and super satisfying. Plus, it’s flexible! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms if you like.
Ingredients – Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Here is what you need to make this creamy pasta dish. Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking.
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water; it can help make your sauce creamier.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the pan, slice it into thin pieces, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir well.
- Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously so it melts smoothly.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss it gently to coat all the noodles.
- Add the sliced chicken on top and stir lightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your creamy chicken garlic Parmesan pasta warm.
- You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for more cheesiness.
- Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work perfectly. They are juicier and add extra flavor to your pasta. Just adjust the cooking time so they are fully cooked.
Q2: Can I make this pasta with a lighter sauce?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit lighter but still delicious.
Q3: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken and pasta separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them and make the sauce fresh before serving.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Of course! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or broccoli are excellent additions. Just sauté them in the pan before adding the sauce.
Q5: How can I make the pasta extra cheesy?
Add more Parmesan or even a little mozzarella to the sauce for a gooey, cheesy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is perfect for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy, and flavorful meals but wants something quick and easy. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can follow this recipe step by step and impress your family or friends.
The best part? It’s fully customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level, or make it extra cheesy. Serve it with a salad, bread, or even a glass of white wine for a complete, comforting meal.
This dish proves that simple ingredients, combined with love and care, can create something truly delicious. So go ahead, try it today, and enjoy a creamy, garlicky, Parmesan-packed pasta that everyone will ask for again and again!
