Name: Best Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thick; 2 tbsp olive oil (for chicken); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs; ½ tsp paprika; 12 oz fettuccine (or preferred pasta); 1 tbsp kosher salt (for pasta water); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup); 6-8 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish; ½ tsp salt (for sauce); ¼ tsp black pepper (for sauce); ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an irresistible symphony of flavors that promises to transport your taste buds to a realm of pure comfort and satisfaction. From the moment its aromatic scent fills your kitchen, you know you’re in for a truly special treat. I often find myself craving this delightful dish, and for good reason! While it may not boast ancient origins, this beloved recipe has firmly established itself as a modern classic, a testament to the beautiful and universally appealing fusion of Italian-American culinary traditions. Its widespread popularity isn’t just by chance; people adore this dish for its perfect balance of tender, succulent chicken, generously coated in fragrant garlic and sharp, nutty Parmesan, all lovingly tossed with al dente pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the ultimate expression of hearty indulgence, offering both convenience for busy weeknights and an explosion of savory goodness that satisfies every time. Crafting the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is a rewarding experience, and I am thrilled to guide you through creating this comforting masterpiece in your own home.

Ingredients:

For the Juicy Chicken:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 2 large (approximately 1.5 lbs / 680g total). I always opt for quality chicken for the best texture in our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. This helps us get a beautiful sear.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to your personal taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. A staple for any “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” recipe!
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon. Complements the garlic beautifully.
- Dried Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon. A lovely aromatic blend.
For the Perfect Pasta:
- Fettuccine or Your Preferred Pasta: 12 ounces (about 340g). Linguine, spaghetti, or even penne would work, but fettuccine is a classic for a creamy “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”.
- Kosher Salt: 1 tablespoon, for the pasta water. Don’t skip this; it’s key to flavoring your pasta from within.
For the Rich Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (¼ cup). The foundation of our creamy sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. When I say garlic, I mean garlic for this “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” dish!
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons. This helps create a roux, thickening our sauce.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 2 cups. Adds depth of flavor without over-salting.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Essential for that luxurious, velvety texture we crave.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, plus more for garnish. This is crucial: always use freshly grated for superior melting and flavor in your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, plus more for garnish. Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Adjust as needed after adding the Parmesan.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a subtle warmth). I sometimes add a little pinch for an extra layer of flavor.
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped.
- Extra Grated Parmesan Cheese: For serving.

Prepping the Chicken for our Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready! I like to take my chicken breasts and place them one at a time between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a large freezer bag. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, pound them evenly until they are about ½-inch thick. This step is incredibly important for two reasons: it ensures the chicken cooks evenly and quickly, and it tenderizes the meat, making every bite of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” wonderfully tender and juicy.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, I combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs. This creates a flavorful rub that will infuse our chicken with an irresistible aroma and taste. Generously sprinkle this seasoning blend over both sides of the pounded chicken breasts, making sure to gently press it in so it adheres well. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what truly elevates the chicken in this “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” dish.
Sear the Chicken: Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer, but not smoke. Carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure a good sear. I usually cook them for about 4-6 minutes per side, until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The aroma filling your kitchen right now is just a preview of the delicious “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” to come!
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board. It’s crucial to let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it incredibly moist and flavorful. While it’s resting, I often tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips, whichever you prefer for your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”.

Cooking the Perfect Pasta for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Boil the Water: Grab a large pot – the biggest one you have! Fill it with plenty of water. I always add a generous tablespoon of kosher salt to the water once it comes to a rolling boil. Salting the water properly is key because it seasons the pasta from the inside out, providing a foundational layer of flavor that complements our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce beautifully. Think of it like seasoning your vegetables; you wouldn’t just add salt to the sauce later, right?
Cook the Pasta: Add the fettuccine (or your chosen pasta) to the boiling salted water. Stir immediately to prevent the strands from sticking together. Follow the package directions for cooking time, but my personal preference is to cook it until it’s al dente – that means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. This texture is perfect for holding up to the rich sauce in our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”. Overcooked, mushy pasta is a definite no-go for this dish!
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, ladle out about 1 to 1½ cups of the starchy pasta water into a heatproof mug or bowl. Do not skip this step! This liquid is a secret weapon; its starches will help emulsify our sauce, making it extra silky and ensuring it clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. It’s also excellent for adjusting the consistency of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce later if it becomes too thick.
Drain the Pasta: Once you’ve reserved the pasta water, drain the cooked fettuccine thoroughly in a colander. I don’t rinse the pasta after draining, as rinsing removes the beneficial starches that help the sauce adhere. Just let it drain for a minute, then set it aside, ready to be introduced to our amazing garlic parmesan sauce.

Crafting the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Sauté the Garlic: In the same large skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the minced garlic. Oh, this is where the magic truly begins for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”! Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be very careful not to let it brown or burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and would ruin the delicate flavor profile of our sauce. We’re looking for that sweet, pungent aroma.
Make the Roux: Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the melted butter and fragrant garlic. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute. This creates a roux, which is a thickening agent for our sauce. Cooking the flour for a minute helps to cook out its raw taste, ensuring our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce has a smooth, pleasant flavor, free from any powdery notes. The mixture will look like a thick, pale paste.
Whisk in Broth and Cream: Gradually, and I mean gradually, pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly to incorporate it into the roux. Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Then, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken beautifully as it heats up. This is the heart of our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce developing its incredible body.
Add the Parmesan Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. This is important: remove the skillet from direct heat or turn the burner completely off before adding the cheese. Stir in the 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Adding the cheese off the heat prevents it from clumping or becoming stringy, ensuring a perfectly smooth and luxurious finish for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remember, the Parmesan cheese is already salty, so it’s always best to add salt incrementally until it’s perfect for your palate. This creamy, garlicky, cheesy sauce is the star of our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”!

Bringing it All Together: The Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained fettuccine directly into the skillet with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Use tongs to gently toss the pasta, making sure every single strand is generously coated in that luscious sauce. This is where the magic truly happens, as the pasta absorbs the flavors and becomes one with the sauce.
Incorporate the Chicken: Next, add the sliced cooked chicken pieces to the pasta and sauce mixture. Gently toss again, ensuring the chicken is also well coated and heated through. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and that incredible “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce is simply divine.
Adjust Consistency (if needed): If you find the sauce is a bit too thick for your liking, now is the time to add a splash or two of that reserved pasta water. Stir it in gradually, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water will help maintain the silkiness of the sauce while thinning it out perfectly. I love how this trick allows me to customize the dish exactly how I like it.
Final Touches and Serve: Do one last taste test of your glorious “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with extra fresh chopped parsley and a generous grating of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving. Serve immediately and watch how quickly this dish disappears! It’s truly a comforting and satisfying meal that will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every single bite of this incredible, homemade “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” – you’ve earned it!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the end of our delicious journey, but really, it’s just the beginning of your incredible culinary adventure! I genuinely hope you’re feeling inspired, perhaps even a little hungry, and ready to dive into making this absolutely unforgettable dish. This isn’t just another dinner; it’s a promise of warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing. When I say this recipe is a must-try, I mean it with every fiber of my food-loving being. The combination of perfectly seared, juicy chicken, lovingly coated in a rich, aromatic garlic and Parmesan sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is truly unparalleled. It’s hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being overwhelming, and utterly satisfying from the first bite to the last. This is the kind of meal that brings smiles to faces and fosters happy memories around the dinner table.

One of the many reasons I adore this recipe is its incredible versatility. While the core Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is phenomenal on its own, it also acts as a fantastic canvas for your own creative flourishes. Imagine serving this alongside a vibrant, crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette, to add a refreshing counterpoint to the richness. Or, for a more substantial vegetable pairing, lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli florets tossed with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt would be simply divine. Don’t underestimate the power of a warm, crusty baguette on the side, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that glorious sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to leave any behind!

But why stop there? Let’s talk about variations, because cooking should always be about making a recipe your own. If you’re looking to boost the veggie content, consider folding in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt gently into the sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped and added with the garlic, bring a wonderful sweetness and depth. Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers could also find a happy home here, adding both flavor and color. For those who prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will introduce a delightful kick without overpowering the main flavors. And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, a tiny splash of white wine added to the pan after the chicken is seared, allowed to reduce, can elevate the sauce to a whole new level of sophistication. Or, for an even creamier consistency, a tablespoon or two of heavy cream stirred in at the end will create a luxurious, velvety finish.

You can also play with the pasta choice. While spaghetti or fettuccine are classic choices, don’t hesitate to experiment with penne, rigatoni, or even a fun twist like orecchiette to scoop up all that amazing sauce. If you’re catering to different dietary needs, this recipe is quite adaptable. Gluten-free pasta works beautifully, and you can easily find dairy-free Parmesan alternatives to make it suitable for lactose-intolerant guests, though the flavor profile will naturally shift slightly. For those looking for different protein options, shrimp or even Italian sausage (either mild or hot, depending on your preference) could easily step in for the chicken, offering an entirely new yet equally delicious experience.

So, now it’s your turn! I implore you to set aside some time, gather your ingredients, and give this Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta recipe a go. I promise you won’t regret it. The joy of creating something so profoundly delicious in your own kitchen is a reward in itself. And once you’ve savored every mouthful, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any fun modifications? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your stories, your photos, and your tips in the comments below, or tag me on social media! Your insights help build our community of food lovers and inspire others to try new things. Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta ahead of time?

While this dish is absolutely best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. You can cook the chicken and make the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat, cook your pasta fresh, then gently reheat the chicken and sauce together on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss with the hot pasta right before serving. This approach helps maintain the best texture for both the chicken and the pasta.

2. What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is its versatility with pasta! Long strands like fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine are classic choices as they beautifully coat with the rich sauce. However, short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are also fantastic, as their nooks and crannies effectively trap every bit of that delicious garlic Parmesan goodness. Even farfalle (bow-tie pasta) or orecchiette (little ears) would work wonderfully. Ultimately, choose your favorite – you can’t go wrong!

3. How should I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Leftovers of this delightful dish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either warm it gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If reheating on the stovetop, you might want to add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth, water, or even milk to help reconstitute the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, simply swap out traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free brand. There are many excellent options available now that hold up wonderfully. For a dairy-free version, you’ll need to use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. Be aware that the flavor profile might be slightly different without real Parmesan, but many dairy-free options are quite good and still provide a savory, cheesy note. You would also need to ensure your butter (if using) is dairy-free, or simply use olive oil.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta?

This dish is quite complete on its own, but some complementary sides can really elevate the meal! A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a refreshing choice. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or even a medley of colorful bell peppers would add both nutrition and visual appeal. A slice of warm, crusty garlic bread is also a fantastic addition for soaking up any extra sauce. It’s all about personal preference, but light and fresh sides tend to balance the richness beautifully.

6. How can I make the sauce creamier?

If you desire an even creamier, more luxurious sauce, there are a few easy tricks! The simplest method is to stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the final stages of making the sauce, right before tossing with the pasta. You can also incorporate a tablespoon of cream cheese or a little more butter at the end. Another chef’s secret is to reserve some of the starchy pasta cooking water and add it to the sauce – the starch helps emulsify the sauce and gives it a wonderfully silken texture.

7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, absolutely, and it’s a delicious variation! Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, retaining moisture even if slightly overcooked. You would cook them in much the same way: sear until beautifully browned and cooked through. Just be mindful that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time compared to breasts due to their slightly thicker composition and higher fat content. The rich flavor of the thighs pairs wonderfully with the garlic Parmesan sauce.