Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

There are some recipes that feel like they’ve always been part of your life, and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is absolutely one of them. Imagine fork-tender chicken breast seared to golden perfection, nestled on a bed of penne tossed in a creamy, dreamy garlic-Parmesan sauce—all made in just one pan. This is the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table on a busy weeknight or makes a simple dinner feel extra special. It’s classic, rich, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is how a handful of honest, everyday ingredients can come together to make something so satisfying. Each item here plays an important role, from bringing the savory depth to lending irresistible creaminess or a pop of freshness.

• Avocado oil or olive oil: Use for searing the chicken and sautéing the aromatics; it adds flavor and keeps everything from sticking.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Pounded thin for tender slices and quick, even cooking.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the chicken its signature Mediterranean aroma.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smoky color to the chicken’s crust.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Brings all the spices and protein to life—season without fear!
• Unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce for a silky, rich finish and helps mellow the onion and garlic.
• Yellow onion: Lends sweetness and depth that infuses the sauce.
• Fresh garlic: The star of the show for unmistakable fragrance in every bite.
• Dry penne pasta: Sturdy pasta that captures sauce in every nook and cranny.
• Chicken broth: Cooks the pasta and adds extra savory flavor to the sauce.
• Finely grated Parmesan cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce, delivering a nutty umami punch.
• Heavy cream: Brings luscious, creamy texture to the entire dish.
• Fresh parsley: A final sprinkle for color and a burst of herbal freshness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by making a simple seasoning mix with Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat your chicken breasts dry, then rub the mixture generously over both sides. This step helps the chicken develop flavor from the inside out and ensures it gets that beautiful golden crust in the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a swirl of oil. Lay your seasoned chicken breasts in the pan and let them sear, undisturbed, for 3 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a lovely golden color and an internal temperature of 74°C. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest—this is where all those juices stay locked in.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Drop the heat slightly, then add a little more oil plus butter to the same pan. Toss in the diced onion and a pinch of salt, stirring until the onion goes translucent and sweet. Next, add in your minced garlic and let it sizzle just long enough to smell incredible without burning—about one minute.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Pour chicken broth into the pan, scraping up all the delicious golden bits stuck to the bottom—they’re flavor gold! Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then stir in the dry penne pasta, making sure it’s submerged. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is perfectly al dente.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

With the heat off, add your freshly grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley straight into the pasta. Stir well until the cheese melts and the sauce turns thick and glossy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you want every forkful bursting with that signature Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta goodness.

Step 6: Slice and Return the Chicken

After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips, letting all the flavor-packed juices mingle into the meat. Return the slices to the pan, gently tossing them into the creamy pasta so every bite gets a bit of chicken, sauce, and pasta in perfect harmony.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Divide your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta among plates, making sure to scoop up plenty of sauce. Finish with a flourish of fresh parsley, maybe even an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve right away for ultimate creaminess.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, a shower of chopped fresh parsley and a cloud of finely grated Parmesan take this dish from homey to restaurant-worthy. If you’re a fan of a little kick, try a twist of cracked pepper or even some red pepper flakes to wake up the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is rich and indulgent, so it loves a crisp, fresh side. Think simple green salads with lemony vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, asparagus, or even some blistered cherry tomatoes. A buttery slice of garlic bread is never frowned upon for soaking up leftover sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling extra, serve your pasta in shallow bowls and twist the penne into a little nest, then fan out the chicken slices on top for a restaurant-style look. Mini cast iron skillets are a fun way to serve individual portions, too. For family-style, bring your pan straight to the table and let everyone dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but the flavors get even richer by the next day.

Freezing

While pasta with cream sauces doesn’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze portions of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta if needed. Cool the pasta completely, then pack into freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. Stir frequently and wait just until everything is hot and creamy again.

FAQs

What’s the best pasta to use for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Penne is classic since it holds onto the creamy sauce and mixes beautifully with the chicken. But feel free to try rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle—they’ll all work wonders!

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

For the smoothest, most luxurious sauce, always use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated often contains anti-caking agents, which can cause clumping instead of melting seamlessly.

Is there a good substitute for heavy cream?

If you want to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can also work in a pinch.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Pounding your chicken breast to an even thickness and not overcooking are key! Make sure to let the chicken rest before slicing so it stays juicy and absorbs flavors from the resting juices and sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use veggie broth. You can add sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a hearty, satisfying alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to dig into this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta as much as I am to share it. It’s one of those no-fuss, always-delicious recipes you’ll make again and again. Give it a try—the simple ingredients and big, comforting flavors are sure to make it a regular in your dinner lineup!

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