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Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta served in a bowl with herbs on top.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in this comforting and savory creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, a quick weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes Pat dry before seasoning.
  • 1 pound twisted pasta (fusilli) or penne Any short pasta with grooves will hold the sauce well.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided Using unsalted allows for better control of final seasoning.
  • 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced Essential for the sauce's bright flavor.
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream Creates a lush, silky sauce.
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth Use low-sodium if reducing salt.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated preferred Melts smoother than pre-grated.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, divided 1/2 teaspoon for chicken, 1/2 teaspoon for sauce.
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for a gentle heat.
  • to taste fine salt and freshly ground black pepper Season gradually, tasting as you go.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta until al dente per package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Preparing Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, then season with fine salt, black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt until foamy.
  3. Sear the chicken 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, keeping the pan juices.
Making the Sauce
  1. Lower the heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, deglazing the pan by scraping up the browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Gradually add the grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  2. Return seared chicken and its juices to the skillet, add drained pasta, and toss until everything is evenly coated with sauce.
Final Touches
  1. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

Serve with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers keep well and can be reheated gently to maintain creaminess.