Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) is perfect when you want a comforting, cheesy dinner on the table quickly. This easy homemade pasta dish features tender chicken bites coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce that clings to every strand. It combines pantry staples like garlic, cream, and pasta for a weeknight meal anyone can whip up in no time. Pair it with my Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast for an extra dose of succulent chicken goodness.
Why You'll Love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner
Make our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) for a quick, family-friendly homemade meal with rich garlic flavor and cheesy goodness. Ready fast!
- Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy, garlicky sauce with rich Parmesan cheese makes it irresistible.
- Uses simple pantry staples and easy techniques, beginner-friendly.
- Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. Thinly sliced chicken thighs work well for extra flavor.Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan yields the creamiest sauce. Avoid pre-grated for best melt and texture.
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. Thinly sliced chicken thighs work well for extra flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan yields the creamiest sauce. Avoid pre-grated for best melt and texture.
Ingredient Note: Full measurements for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner are listed in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner
Step 1 — Prep & Preheat
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 — Cook and Build Flavor
Sear the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3 — Finish, Taste, and Adjust
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stir well. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water to loosen sauce if it gets too thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner
Make our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) for a quick, family-friendly homemade meal with rich garlic flavor and cheesy goodness. Ready fast!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1 tbsp butter
Optional Toppings
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Freshly chopped basil or parsley
- Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!)
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stir well. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine & Finish: Turn off heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return chicken and drained pasta to skillet, gently toss to coat with sauce. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper as desired. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended (texture changes).
- Serve/Reheat: Best chilled or at room temperature.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe!) - Easy Homemade Dinner FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring back creaminess.
Whole milk with a tablespoon of flour can work in a pinch, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing to maintain smooth sauce texture.
Overcooking chicken can dry it out. Cook just until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes depending on size.
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