The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something simply irresistible about creamy pasta dishes, and this one tops the list! With tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, you’ll find yourself craving this dish week after week. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, and it’s also incredibly quick to prepare. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings a taste of Italian dining right to your kitchen without breaking the bank.

"This is the best chicken pasta I’ve ever made! It’s creamy, flavorful, and my kids ask for seconds every time!" – A happy home cook

How to Make The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week

The beauty of this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta lies in its simplicity and speed. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. Below, you’ll find the essential items you’ll need and the process to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients

Gather these items to create your creamy delight:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast — 2 large, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Twisted pasta (fusilli) — 1 lb (450 g), or penne/rotini
• Unsalted butter — 3 Tbsp, divided
• Fresh garlic, minced — 4–5 cloves
• Heavy cream — 1 ½ cups
• Chicken broth — ½ cup
• Grated Parmesan cheese — 1 cup (freshly grated preferred)
• Italian seasoning — 1 tsp, divided
• Red pepper flakes — ¼ tsp, optional
• Fine salt & black pepper — to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped — 2 Tbsp, for garnish

For a quick substitution, if you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half works in a pinch, though the sauce will be less rich. And if you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable broth can provide a tasty alternative!

Directions

1. Boil the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the chosen pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining!

2. Season & sear chicken. Pat the chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate, keeping the pan juices for flavor.

3. Build the garlic cream base. Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

4. Deglaze & simmer. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Combine with heavy cream and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Allow this mix to gently simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Melt Parmesan. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy.

6. Combine. Return the seared chicken (with any juices) to the skillet. Add your drained pasta and toss together until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches a glossy, clingy consistency.

7. Finish & serve. Taste your creation and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle on the chopped parsley for a fresh garnish, then serve immediately!

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, perhaps a classic Caesar or a refreshing arugula with lemon vinaigrette. For extra crunch and flavor, consider serving it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds that special touch, while a glass of wine complements the meal perfectly.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to help revive the sauce’s velvety texture. If you want to enjoy it for weeks to come, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Nothing beats fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Aim for juicy, tender bites; cook just until they’re golden and no longer pink inside.
• Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of heavy cream according to your preference—add a little more for a richer sauce or reduce it for a lighter dish.

Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some creative twists you can try! Incorporate some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the mixture for an added pop of color and flavor. For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with other protein sources; shrimp or a vegetarian option like mushrooms can work wonderfully in this creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it with a splash of cream before tossing it with pasta and chicken.

What type of pasta is best?
Fusilli, penne, or rotini are all excellent choices since their ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!

How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten the dish, use whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein. Also, consider reducing the amount of cream and substituting some with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist while still keeping it creamy.

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