Craving a restaurant-quality dinner without the hassle? This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and downright irresistible flavors—all made in just 30 minutes! Juicy, seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with tender pasta, while a rich garlic parmesan sauce brings it all together in a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
As a home cook who loves easy yet impressive meals, I can confidently say this recipe is a game-changer. The combination of fresh garlic, real parmesan, and simple pantry staples creates a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple to make. Whether you're cooking for your family or looking to impress guests, this is the kind of dinner that guarantees empty plates and happy smiles.
Why This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Is Worth Making
There’s a reason creamy pasta dishes have remained a classic—they’re incredibly satisfying, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. This garlic parmesan chicken pasta stays true to that tradition but adds its own unique twist with bold garlic flavor, perfectly seasoned chicken, and a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every bite.
What makes this recipe truly special is how the garlic-infused parmesan sauce coats each strand of pasta, delivering deep, savory flavor in every forkful. Meanwhile, tender, juicy chicken turns it into a hearty, protein-packed meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. It’s creamy without being too heavy, making it a dish you’ll crave again and again.
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights when you need a quick but delicious family dinner
- Date nights at home—pair it with a glass of white wine for an effortless romantic meal
- Meal prep—it reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as tasty
- Impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen
Once you try this garlic parmesan chicken pasta, it’ll quickly become a staple in your home. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal any night of the week!
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Ingredients
Here's everything you need to make this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - adds color and a fresh finish
- Penne pasta (about 3 cups cooked) - provides the perfect shape to hold the sauce
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts - the protein that makes this dish filling
- Butter - creates the base for our sauce
- Cloves garlic, minced - the star flavor that makes this dish sing
- Heavy cream - creates that velvety smooth texture
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese - adds rich, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce
- Olive oil - for cooking the chicken to golden perfection
- Italian seasoning - adds depth and complexity
- Red pepper flakes (optional) - adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess
- Salt and black pepper to taste - enhances all the flavors
See recipe card for quantities.
Ingredient Substitutions
Want to customize your garlic parmesan chicken pasta to fit your dietary needs or preferences? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions to make this dish work for you:
✔ For a lighter version – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to cut down on richness. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still creamy and delicious.
✔ Pasta options – Any medium pasta shape works well, so feel free to use fusilli, rotini, or farfalle for a fun twist on texture.
✔ Cheese alternatives – Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago instead of parmesan for a slightly sharper, nuttier flavor.
✔ Protein swaps – Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs add extra richness. Want a seafood twist? Shrimp makes a fantastic alternative!
✔ Dairy-free option – Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of dairy ingredients (note: the flavor will differ slightly, but it's still delicious!).
✔ Gluten-free version – Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you can still enjoy this comforting garlic parmesan chicken pasta without worry.
With these easy swaps, you can tweak this dish to suit your taste while still enjoying the creamy, savory goodness of garlic parmesan chicken pasta any night of the week!
Instructions
Prep Ingredients and Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes).
- While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper.
- Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese if not using pre-grated.
- Measure out the remaining ingredients so they're ready to go.
- When pasta is done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining (this starchy water helps thicken the sauce).
Pro tip: Salt your pasta water until it tastes like the sea. This seasons the pasta from the inside out as it cooks.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
Common mistake to avoid: Don't stir the chicken constantly. Let it sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes on each side to develop that golden crust.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet (don't clean it - those chicken bits add flavor!), reduce heat to medium and add the butter.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using.
- Gradually stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Pro tip: For extra garlic flavor, add one whole, peeled garlic clove to the oil when cooking the chicken, then remove it before making the sauce.
Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated.
- Gently fold in the cooked chicken pieces.
- Allow everything to simmer together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors can blend.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and additional parmesan if desired.
- Step 1: Prep Ingredients and Cook Pasta
Cook the pasta until al dente and prepare all ingredients before cooking.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Sear the chicken in a skillet until golden and fully cooked.
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Melt butter, add garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan to create a smooth sauce.
- Step 4: Combine and Serve
Toss the pasta with the sauce and chicken, then serve hot.
Expert Cooking Tips
After making this garlic parmesan chicken pasta countless times, I've picked up some tricks that take it from good to great:
- Room temperature ingredients: Let the heavy cream sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to prevent it from "breaking" when heated.
- Freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Take the extra minute to grate it fresh.
- Pasta water magic: That starchy pasta water is liquid gold for loosening a too-thick sauce while adding body and helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Garlic technique: For milder garlic flavor, use whole cloves and remove them. For stronger flavor, mince it right before adding to the pan.
- Finishing touch: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors.
Recipe Variations
Want to take your garlic parmesan chicken pasta to the next level? Adding vegetables is a great way to enhance flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here are some easy and delicious ways to switch it up:
- Spinach Version – Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach during the last minute of cooking. It wilts perfectly into the creamy sauce, adding color and a boost of nutrients.
- Mushroom Lover’s Twist – For an earthy, umami-packed variation, sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms in the pan after cooking the chicken, then continue with the recipe.
- Roasted Veggie Upgrade – Add a burst of sweetness and texture by folding in 1 cup of roasted cherry tomatoes and zucchini at the end. This works especially well for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Broccoli Boost – Love a hearty bite? Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets and toss them in with the chicken for a deliciously balanced meal.
With these simple additions, you can transform your garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a dish that’s even more satisfying while keeping the creamy, garlicky goodness intact. Which version will you try first?
Dietary Modifications:
How to Adapt Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to Your Needs ?
Love garlic parmesan chicken pasta but need to tweak it to fit your diet? Here are some easy modifications to make this dish work for you while keeping its creamy, savory goodness intact!
- Keto-Friendly – Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles or hearts of palm pasta to keep it low-carb while still enjoying the rich garlic parmesan sauce.
- Lower-Calorie Version – Lighten it up by replacing half the heavy cream with chicken broth and reducing the parmesan by ¼ cup—you’ll still get creamy goodness with fewer calories.
- Higher Protein Boost – Want to pack in more protein? Add an extra ½ lb of chicken and mix 2 tablespoons of unflavored protein powder into the sauce for a muscle-friendly meal.
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken and replace it with roasted chickpeas or pan-fried tofu cubes for a plant-based take on this comforting classic.
With these simple swaps, you can enjoy garlic parmesan chicken pasta no matter your dietary preferences. Which version will you try first?
Equipment
You don't need fancy equipment, but these tools make preparation easier:
- Large skillet: A 12-inch skillet with high sides gives you plenty of room to toss everything together.
- Heavy-bottomed pot: For cooking pasta evenly without sticking.
- Microplane grater: Makes quick work of both garlic and parmesan.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for gently folding ingredients together and scraping up flavorful bits from the pan.
- Instant-read thermometer: Eliminates guesswork when checking if chicken is properly cooked.
Budget-friendly alternative: If you don't have a large skillet, you can use a pot to make the sauce and add the pasta and chicken to it.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Making garlic parmesan chicken pasta ahead of time? Great idea! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers that taste just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh and creamy:
Fridge Storage
✔ Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
✔ Keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
✔ The sauce may thicken when chilled—this is completely normal!
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or chicken broth and reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring to restore the creamy texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, with a tablespoon of water or broth added to keep the sauce smooth.
Freezing (Yes, You Can!)
- While creamy pasta sauces don’t always freeze well, this one works if you follow these steps:
- Cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 1 month for best results.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore the texture.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy garlic parmesan chicken pasta anytime—fresh, creamy, and just as delicious as the day you made it! 🍽️
Secret Tip for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Want to make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta taste like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen? The key to next-level flavor and texture lies in one simple step: finish cooking the pasta in the sauce for the last minute or two.
Rather than just tossing cooked pasta into the sauce at the end, this technique allows the noodles to fully absorb the garlicky, parmesan-infused creaminess, making every bite rich, velvety, and deeply flavorful. It’s the difference between pasta that has sauce on top and pasta that’s truly infused with flavor from the inside out.
Pro Tip: If the sauce thickens too much while finishing the pasta, just add a splash of reserved pasta water. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling beautifully to each piece of pasta, creating that signature silky, restaurant-style finish.
Once you try this game-changing trick, you’ll never go back to draining and plating separately. It’s a small adjustment that makes a huge difference in the final dish—turning an already delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a truly unforgettable meal! 🍝✨
FAQ
What sauce goes with chicken parmesan pasta?
Chicken parmesan pasta is best paired with either a rich tomato-based marinara sauce or a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. While traditional chicken parmesan is served with marinara and melted mozzarella, garlic parmesan chicken pasta features a velvety, cheesy, and garlicky sauce made with butter, heavy cream, garlic, and parmesan cheese for a more indulgent twist.
What is garlic parmesan sauce made of?
Garlic parmesan sauce is a creamy, flavorful sauce typically made with:
✔ Butter – for a rich, silky base
✔ Garlic – fresh minced garlic adds depth and aroma
✔ Heavy cream – creates a smooth and luscious texture
✔ Parmesan cheese – for a nutty, umami-packed flavor
✔ Seasonings – salt, black pepper, and sometimes Italian seasoning for extra depth
✔ Optional ingredients – some versions include cream cheese for extra thickness or a splash of chicken broth for a lighter consistency
This sauce is perfect for garlic parmesan chicken pasta, as it coats the pasta beautifully and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Why is it called "Marry Me Chicken Pasta"?
"Marry Me Chicken Pasta" gets its name from its irresistible, rich flavor—legend has it that this dish is so good it could inspire a marriage proposal! The dish typically features creamy parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and tender chicken, all tossed with pasta. It’s similar to garlic parmesan chicken pasta, but with the addition of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and sometimes fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor.
What type of pasta is best for chicken parm?
The best pasta for chicken parmesan pasta depends on your preference, but some top choices include:
- Spaghetti – A classic choice for pairing with marinara sauce and breaded chicken parmesan.
- Fettuccine or Linguine – Perfect for creamy versions like garlic parmesan chicken pasta, as the wider noodles hold onto the sauce well.
- Penne or Rigatoni – Great for baked pasta dishes or when you want a pasta that holds its shape with chunks of chicken.
- Fusilli or Rotini – Their spiral shape helps catch more sauce, making each bite extra flavorful.
For garlic parmesan chicken pasta, creamy sauces work best with fettuccine, linguine, or short pastas like penne for maximum flavor in every bite!
Your New Favorite Comfort Food Awaits!
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta brings together simple, high-quality ingredients to create a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—just like something from your favorite Italian restaurant. It’s that perfect balance of indulgence and practicality, making it special enough for guests yet easy enough for a busy weeknight dinner.
Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something warm, garlicky, and utterly comforting. Give it a try tonight, and you just might find yourself making it again and again!
Looking for more delicious pasta ideas? Try my Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Chicken for a lighter twist, or indulge in the ultimate Creamy Steak and Pasta Recipe for a hearty, flavor-packed meal.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below with your favorite variation—I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this garlic parmesan chicken pasta:
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For cooking the chicken and sauce
- 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
- 1 Colander To drain pasta
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring sauce
- 1 Microplane Grater For grating fresh parmesan
- 1 Cutting board For prepping chicken and garlic
- 1 Chef’s knife For cutting chicken and mincing garlic
Ingredients
- 8 oz Penne Pasta Or any medium pasta shape
- 1 lb Chicken Breast Cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoon Butter Unsalted
- 5 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Room temperature
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil For cooking the chicken
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning Optional for extra flavor
- ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional , adds a subtle heat
- Salt & Pepper To taste
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta until al dente, reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Prep Ingredients: Cut chicken, mince garlic, grate parmesan, measure ingredients.
- Cook Chicken: Sear chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden, then set aside.
- Make Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, add cream, then stir in parmesan. Simmer until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Toss pasta and chicken into sauce, stir well, and let it absorb flavors.
- Garnish & Serve: Adjust seasoning, top with parsley, and serve hot.
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