Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 Boneless chicken breasts; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp Paprika; 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 2 tbsp Unsalted butter; 1 Yellow onion (diced); 2 cups Chicken broth; 12 oz Penne pasta; 1 cup Heavy cream; 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (chopped); Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The first time I made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, I was shocked by how easy it was to create something so flavorful. The creamy garlic sauce hugs the pasta perfectly, and the chicken stays juicy and tender. What’s even better is how quickly it all comes together in one pan.

I didn’t have to scrub dishes for hours, and that alone made it a winner for me. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is pure comfort food with a gourmet twist. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll add it to your “make again” list immediately.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe Amazing?

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish perfect. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters.

boneless chicken breasts (2): These cook quickly and stay juicy, especially when seasoned right.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a burst of herbs and spices that pair perfectly with garlic.
paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a warm, subtle smokiness to the seasoning mix.
garlic (4 cloves, minced): The star of the dish, it provides bold, aromatic flavor.
unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Helps sauté the garlic and provides a creamy richness.
yellow onion (1, diced): Adds a sweet, caramelized base for the sauce.
chicken broth (2 cups): Flavors the sauce and cooks the pasta all in one pan.
penne pasta (12 oz): Its ridges hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated.
heavy cream (1 cup): Creates a luxurious, velvety texture in the sauce.
parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Freshly grated is your best bet for a smooth, cheesy sauce.
fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): A garnish to add freshness and color.
salt and pepper (to taste): Balances and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Note: This recipe yields 4 servings and is sure to please every palate at the table.

Variations to Suit Your Preferences

This dish is as flexible as it is delicious! Here’s how you can tweak the recipe to suit your needs.

Lactose-free option: Swap heavy cream with a dairy-free substitute like coconut cream, and use vegan parmesan.
Veggie-packed version: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrients.
Change up the pasta: Use gluten-free pasta, spaghetti, or fusilli for a different texture.
Kick up the heat: Add red pepper flakes for a slight spicy twist.

How Long Does It Take to Make?

This recipe is perfect for weeknights because it comes together so quickly!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe

Here are the essential tools you’ll use to make this dish effortless.

Large pan with lid: Ideal for cooking the chicken, pasta, and sauce all-in-one.
Sharp knife: Perfect for slicing the chicken and dicing the onion.
Mixing bowl: Handy for blending your seasoning mix.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken perfectly.
Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring the sauce and scraping up any browned bits.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

This dish is straightforward but packed with flavor. Here’s how I pull it together step by step.

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by mixing Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with the seasoning blend. Heat some oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat slightly and melt the butter in the same pan. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, stirring occasionally. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the sauce and smells downright delicious.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan and Cook the Pasta

Pour the chicken broth into the pan while stirring to scrape up those browned bits from the bottom. Once the broth begins to simmer, add the penne pasta, ensuring it’s completely submerged. Cover the pan and allow the pasta to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and chopped parsley. Mix until the parmesan melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Don’t rush this step; it’s what makes the dish shine.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and toss it into the pasta and sauce mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, then serve it up hot. Garnish with additional parmesan or parsley for a touch of elegance.

Tips to Nail this Recipe Every Time

From my experience, a few small tweaks can take this recipe from good to absolutely amazing.

Use freshly grated parmesan: It melts better and has a more robust flavor than pre-packaged options.
Don’t overcook the chicken: Remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F to keep it juicy.
Adjust pasta consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit more broth or cream to thin it out.

Perfect Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions.

Add greens: Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad for balance.
Bread on the side: Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Top with extras: Sprinkle on more parmesan or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for garnish.

Nutritional Information

For one serving of this dish, here’s what you can expect.

Calories: 665
Protein: 41g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fat: 32g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, here’s how to make this dish work for you.

Make Ahead

You can season the chicken and dice the onions up to a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.

Refrigeration

Store leftover pasta in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this pasta for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well when reheating to bring the sauce back together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is loved for all the right reasons.

Quick and easy: From start to finish, it takes just 35 minutes.
Rich in flavor: The creamy garlic sauce is indulgent yet balanced.
Customizable: Perfect for adapting to your dietary needs or preferences.
One pan, no mess: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy.
Comfort food perfection: It’s hearty, satisfying, and ideal for any occasion.

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to create a comfort food classic. Once you try it, I guarantee it’ll earn a regular spot in your meal rotation!