Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!). It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, rich and velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all coming together in under half an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests without the fuss, this dish delivers big on comfort and flavor with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a vital role in creating that luscious sauce, tender chicken, and irresistible aroma.

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for quick, even cooking and easy bites.
• 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli): Fusilli holds the sauce beautifully, but penne or rotini work great too.
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps cook the garlic perfectly without burning.
• 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced: The star flavor component that makes this dish sing.
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Perfect for deglazing the pan and adding depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Use fresh for the best melting quality and flavor boost.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Divided use adds herbaceous notes to both the chicken and sauce.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a subtle kick if you like a little heat.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste, enhances every ingredient’s flavor.
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens and freshens the final dish with a pop of color.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!)

Step 1: Cook the pasta and sear the chicken

Start by boiling your pasta in generously salted water until it reaches al dente—this means firm to the bite but cooked through. Remember to save about half a cup of pasta water before draining! While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken cubes dry thoroughly, then season them with salt, black pepper, and half the Italian seasoning—this ensures your chicken is bursting with flavor from the get-go. Melt one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate, keeping all those tasty juices in the pan.

Step 2: Make the garlic-Parmesan sauce

Reduce your heat to medium and melt the remaining two tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and, if you want a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes, stirring for just 30 to 60 seconds until you can smell that mouth-watering garlic aroma—be careful not to burn it! Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then stir in the heavy cream and the rest of the Italian seasoning and let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens slightly. Lower the heat to the lowest setting and whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese bit by bit, stirring until the sauce is luxuriously smooth.

Step 3: Toss everything together and serve

Return your golden chicken pieces, along with any juices on the plate, back into the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything gently to coat perfectly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick or not quite silky enough, add small splashes of the reserved pasta water—it’s a genius trick to create that clingy, luscious texture. Taste, then adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for an inviting burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and get ready to fall in love.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!)

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a classic choice for a reason—it adds bright flavor and a beautiful green contrast. You can also sprinkle extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese or even a little cracked black pepper over the top just before serving for that extra wow factor.

Side Dishes

This dish stands tall on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness and keeps the meal light and balanced. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed asparagus or broccoli add a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fuss-free party, serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) straight from the skillet or in a big serving bowl to encourage family-style dining. Alternatively, plate individual portions and top each with a sprig of parsley or a curl of Parmesan for an elegant touch that will impress your guests without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay good for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it chills, so expect to add a bit of liquid when reheating.

Freezing

While freezing this creamy pasta is possible, textures may change slightly. If you decide to freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the sauce luscious and prevent separation.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too—just cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring between, for even warming without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fusilli, penne, or rotini are ideal because they hold onto the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape to suit your pantry or preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It’s a fantastic meal prep candidate thanks to its balance of protein, carbs, and creamy goodness. Just keep in mind that reheating gently is key to keeping the sauce on point.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What can I add to make this dish spicier?

Adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the sauce step will boost the heat level. For an extra flavor punch, some chopped sun-dried tomatoes also complement the richness beautifully.

How can I tell when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

Look for golden edges and a firm texture when you press it; the chicken should have no pink inside once cut. Cooking in 1-inch cubes helps it cook evenly and quickly without drying out.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) is one of those dishes that feels special but takes almost no time to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and restaurant-worthy without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a quick favorite in your dinner rotation. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite!

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