It’s 6pm and you need dinner fast. If you’re craving something creamy and comforting, look no further. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the answer to your prayers. It delivers a rich, restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Too tired to cook something complicated? This recipe works every single time. It is one of those meals you will put on repeat. You get bold flavors with very little cleanup required.
Why You’ll Make This Again
This is the ultimate comfort food for a cold Winter night. It is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when time is short. You get a gourmet feel without the gourmet effort. Your family will ask for this every single week. This meal is ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish.
The sauce is incredibly smooth and clings to every piece of pasta. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It is highly reliable and tastes better than takeout. You will love how the garlic and parmesan blend together perfectly.
How This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Comes Together
You start by boiling your favorite penne pasta. While that cooks, you sear the chicken until golden. The sauce builds right in the same skillet for maximum flavor. It is a stress-free process that any beginner can master. You will feel like a pro chef in no time.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking. Freshly grated cheese makes a huge difference here.
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta is boiling, season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Take care not to burn it.
- Whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in the parmesan cheese until melted. Whisk until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve It
Serve this dish in shallow bowls while it is steaming hot. The vibrant green parsley makes the dish look beautiful. Pair it with a side of garlic bread for dipping. A light side salad helps balance the rich sauce. This is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual hosting.
Leftovers & Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of milk or broth. This helps loosen the sauce and restores the creaminess. Warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Avoid the microwave if you want the best texture.
Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining the pot.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Don’t skip the red pepper flakes for a tiny flavor kick.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken so it stays juicy and tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked.
- Warm your serving bowls to keep the pasta hot longer.
- Add the cheese on low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.
- Garnish with extra cheese right before serving for more flavor.
Easy Ways to Change It Up
- Stir in two cups of fresh spinach at the end.
- Swap the chicken for sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Use gluten-free penne to make this meal gluten-friendly.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a bright pop of color.
- Try using smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor profile.
Quick Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner. If you use milk, consider adding a teaspoon of cornstarch. This helps the sauce thicken to the right consistency.
What is the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne is great because the sauce fills the tubes. You could also use rigatoni or fettuccine. Any shape with ridges or holes works best with cream sauce.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
I do not recommend freezing cream-based pasta dishes. The sauce often separates and becomes grainy when thawed. It is best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.
I hope you love this creamy pasta as much as I do. It is the perfect way to end a long day. Give it a try tonight!
— Ethan
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta is boiling, season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Whisk in the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and whisk in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
