Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Restaurant-Style Meal in 30 Minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Restaurant-Style Meal in 30 Minutes
When busy weeknights call for something hearty and comforting, this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luxurious cheesy garlic sauce that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for those evenings when you need dinner on the table fast without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to low and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot!
Expert Tips
- Fresh is best: Use freshly grated parmesan for the creamiest sauce—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sauce gritty.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cook pasta al dente since it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Customize: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days—reheat gently with a splash of milk to refresh the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, linguine, or bowtie pasta all work beautifully with this recipe.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and add extra vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored separately—simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Restaurant-Style Meal in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot!
