Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken pasta that's perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:45:39.145Z

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not just a meal; it's a comforting experience. The rich flavors of garlic and parmesan blend beautifully, enveloping each piece of pasta and chicken in a delightful sauce.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
Savory garlic flavor with a hint of parmesan
Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights

      

The Perfect Weeknight Dinner

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the answer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dish that will impress your family or guests. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and nutty parmesan creates a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist.

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, for added nutrition and color. This allows you to make the dish your own while maintaining its creamy goodness.

A Creamy Delight

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the creamy sauce. Made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese, it envelops the pasta in a rich, velvety coating. The garlic adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This sauce is perfect for those who crave comfort food that satisfies without being overly heavy.

As the sauce clings to the fettuccine, each bite is a delightful experience. The use of freshly grated parmesan ensures that you get the best flavor and texture. When combined with the sautéed chicken, it creates a symphony of tastes that leaves you wanting more.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, cut it into even-sized pieces. This promotes uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain undercooked. Don't rush the browning process; a good sear adds flavor and texture to the chicken, enhancing the overall dish.

When making the sauce, keep an eye on the heat. You want to simmer the cream gently to avoid curdling. Stir frequently to help the cheese melt smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, a splash of pasta water can help achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Pasta

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta!

Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid microwaving it as this can create an uneven texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. While the texture may change slightly upon thawing, it will still be delicious. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish, while roasted asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant touch.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors and add a nice kick. Alternatively, serving it with crusty garlic bread makes for a comforting and indulgent dinner experience.

Nutritional Information

This recipe is a great source of protein from the chicken and calcium from the parmesan cheese. However, it is also rich in calories due to the cream and cheese, so it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider adding vegetables to boost the nutritional value while keeping the dish satisfying.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use a lower-fat cheese. These adjustments can help reduce the calorie count while still delivering a creamy texture that you love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with any pasta of your choice like penne or spaghetti.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and just combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish.