Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Easy Dinners

The sizzling aroma of garlic hitting a hot pan, mingling with the buttery richness of Parmesan, and the creamy smoothness of a luscious sauce—there’s nothing quite like it. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has been my weeknight savior more times than I can count! This recipe is all about comfort food done right: easy to make, packed with flavor, and ready in no time. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

I first stumbled upon a version of this recipe when I was trying to use up leftover roasted chicken and an almost-empty wedge of Parmesan. With a little experimentation (and some garlic, because how could I not?), it turned into the creamy, dreamy pasta dish I now make at least once a month. Trust me, this is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

If you’re looking for a quick dinner idea that tastes like it came straight out of a restaurant, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the answer. It’s indulgent without being heavy, and it’s packed with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like pasta, garlic, and Parmesan cheese—no fancy shopping required.
• Versatile: Works beautifully with leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp if you want to switch it up.
• Family-Friendly: Creamy, garlicky flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Restaurant Quality: It feels indulgent and special, but without the hefty price tag or complicated techniques.

This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the tender chicken adds just the right amount of protein to make it satisfying. Plus, the garlic and Parmesan combination is basically a match made in heaven. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish has a permanent spot on my dinner rotation.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients to deliver bold flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta—penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work beautifully.
• Cooked Chicken: 2 cups (about 300 g), shredded or diced. Leftovers or rotisserie chicken are perfect for this.
• Butter: 3 tablespoons, unsalted for a creamy base.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (fresh garlic is a must for bold flavor).
• Heavy Cream: 1 ½ cups (360 ml) for a luxurious, creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup (90 g), freshly grated for maximum flavor.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240 ml) to add depth to the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for perfect seasoning.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, but it adds a pop of color).

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe a go-to when you need something quick and comforting. If you’re out of heavy cream, you can swap in half-and-half or even whole milk, though it won’t be quite as decadent. And don’t skimp on the Parmesan—it’s the star of the show!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Deep Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan works best for making the sauce.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Microplane or Grater: For grating the Parmesan.

If you don’t have a deep skillet, a regular frying pan will do, though you might need to be careful about spillage when mixing the pasta with the sauce. A good nonstick skillet is always helpful for creamy dishes like this one!

Preparation Method

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Make the sauce base: In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add liquids: Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Parmesan: Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
5. Season: Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Don’t overdo it—remember the Parmesan is already salty.
6. Combine chicken and pasta: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Then toss in the drained pasta, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving warm.

The sauce should be creamy and cling nicely to the pasta, with the garlic and Parmesan flavors shining through. If your sauce feels too thick, that reserved pasta water is your best friend—it’s packed with starch to help loosen things up without watering it down.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Use fresh Parmesan: Skip the pre-grated stuff in the can—it won’t melt properly and doesn’t have the same flavor punch.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key, especially since the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce.
• Adjust the consistency: If your sauce gets too thick, thin it out with a splash of pasta water or chicken broth.
• Be careful with garlic: Garlic can quickly turn bitter if overcooked, so keep a close eye on it when sautéing.
• Multitasking: Save time by cooking your pasta while prepping the sauce—it’s all about efficiency!

One tip I learned the hard way: don’t rush the Parmesan melting step. Slow and steady ensures a smooth, creamy sauce without any clumps!

Variations & Adaptations

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
• Low-carb option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a lighter version.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Seafood swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood spin.

One of my favorite variations is tossing in a handful of spinach or kale toward the end—it adds color and a boost of nutrients without overpowering the dish.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best served hot and fresh. Here are some tips for serving and storing:

• Serving temperature: Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
• Complementary sides: Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Refrigerator storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer storage: Freeze for up to 2 months, though the sauce may lose some creaminess upon reheating.
• Reheating tips: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.

The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers are still incredibly delicious—perfect for lunch the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe provides a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying dinner option. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving.
• Protein: High-protein content from chicken and Parmesan.
• Calcium: Rich in calcium thanks to the cheese and cream.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Keep in mind that exact values depend on the specific brands and quantities you use. This dish is indulgent but balanced, especially if paired with a veggie side!

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy garlic sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just a recipe—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a quiet evening, this dish is bound to become a favorite.

Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. That’s the beauty of cooking—it’s all about making it your own. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment below or share your version—I’m always looking for new ideas!

So grab your skillet and get cooking. Dinner bliss awaits!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan is ideal, you can use Pecorino Romano or even Asiago for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The sauce is best when freshly made, but you can prep the chicken and pasta ahead of time to save time.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Fettuccine or penne works best, but any pasta shape will do. Choose what you love!

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Simmer gently and whisk the cheese in slowly to avoid clumps or separation.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli make great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.

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