Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T17:54:38.456Z

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it's perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture that delights the palate
  • Bold garlic flavor complemented by Parmesan cheese
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

Perfect for Any Occasion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a weeknight dinner; it’s a dish that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're hosting a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this pasta recipe fits the bill perfectly. The richness of the sauce combined with the tender chicken creates an indulgent experience that your guests will rave about.

This recipe is versatile enough to be served on both casual nights and special occasions. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Plus, the ease of preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the fettuccine for your favorite pasta type, whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. You can also experiment with the protein; shrimp or sautéed vegetables can make delightful alternatives to chicken, ensuring everyone at the table finds something they love.

Additionally, the sauce can be customized to suit your taste preferences. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. If you’re a fan of herbs, fresh basil or thyme can elevate the flavor profile even further, making this dish uniquely yours.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its creamy texture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. Simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore its luscious consistency.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently on the stovetop. Enjoying this comforting meal again will remind you of its delightful flavors, making it worth every bite!

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
  • Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Combine all the ingredients for a delightful meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet, slice, and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 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 sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Serve warm for best results!

Healthier Alternatives

While this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is undeniably delicious, you may be looking for ways to make it a bit lighter. Consider using whole grain or vegetable-based pasta to increase the fiber content. Additionally, substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt can lower the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture.

You can also load your dish with more veggies! Spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers not only enhance the nutritional value but also add color and crunch. This way, you can enjoy this indulgent dish without compromising on health.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully, balancing the meal perfectly.

When it comes to beverages, a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, can elevate your meal. The fruity notes and acidity of these wines will cut through the creaminess, offering a delightful contrast. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is a refreshing choice.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

→ How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a lighter option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
  2. Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce

  1. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  2. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  3. 1 cup heavy cream
  4. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  5. Salt and pepper, to taste
  6. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Chicken

  1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. Salt and pepper, to taste
  3. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet, slice, and set aside.

Step 03

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 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.

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 25g