Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, savory, and packed with rich flavor—Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of comfort food that turns an ordinary dinner into something unforgettable. With tender, juicy bites of chicken nestled in a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce and wrapped around al dente pasta, this dish delivers a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent without being complicated.

Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner for the family or prepping for guests, this pasta is always a hit. The balance of the creamy sauce, the sharp tang of Parmesan, and the warm kick of garlic makes it addictive in the best way. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a handful of spinach for color and freshness, and you’ve got a plate that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• It’s ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting and rich without being too heavy.
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved.
• Easily customizable with veggies or different pasta shapes.
• Uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely already have.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To pull this dish off smoothly, you’ll want to gather your tools before you begin. The essentials include:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and simmering the sauce.
• Pasta Pot: To boil your penne (or preferred pasta) until perfectly al dente.
• Tongs or Spatula: For flipping and stirring the chicken without tearing it apart.
• Microplane or Grater: Essential for freshly grating Parmesan, which melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Helps keep ingredient amounts accurate for a consistent sauce texture.

Each tool contributes to a smoother workflow and more polished final result, ensuring that everything cooks evenly and nothing gets over- or underdone.

Preparation Tips

For tender chicken, make sure to slice it thin and evenly so it cooks quickly and stays juicy. Season it well before cooking to build depth from the start. Let the garlic gently sizzle in the pan—don’t let it brown too much or it can turn bitter. Freshly grated Parmesan will give your sauce a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty. Finally, save some of your pasta water! It’s liquid gold for loosening up the sauce without watering it down.

Ingredients for this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any preferred pasta)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized strips)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional for added freshness)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan, for topping
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese slowly, allowing it to melt into the cream. Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Final Touches

Stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted. Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan on top before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored for later, and the flavors get even better the next day!

Notes

This pasta dish strikes a balance between comfort food and weeknight practicality. It’s rich without being overwhelming, and the spinach adds a touch of freshness to cut through the creamy sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner. Adding spinach is optional but highly recommended for color, texture, and added nutrition.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta just to al dente, since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents. Always grate Parmesan fresh for the best creamy consistency.
• Overheating the garlic: Garlic burns quickly and becomes bitter. Sauté it gently on medium heat just until fragrant.
• Skipping the pasta water: This starchy liquid helps bring the sauce together and prevents it from becoming too thick or clumpy.
• Crowding the pan with chicken: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to get a nice sear without steaming it.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling it, as that can break the sauce and make it grainy. Freezing is not recommended, as creamy sauces tend to separate when thawed.

Estimated Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups (approx.)
• Calories: 610 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 390mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce well, but rotini, fusilli, or fettuccine also work.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, though the sauce will be thinner. You can use whole milk or combine milk with a bit of flour to thicken it.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Don’t overcook it—sear on high heat just until it’s cooked through, then set it aside while you make the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Make the pasta and sauce, then store separately. Reheat gently and combine when ready to serve.

Is it spicy with the red pepper flakes?

Only mildly. You can skip them if you’re sensitive to heat or increase for a spicier kick.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes are excellent additions.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute the cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives, though flavor will vary.

What can I serve with this pasta?

It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a weeknight hero dish—delicious, filling, and simple enough to make without breaking a sweat. With its creamy texture, bold garlic flavor, and tender chicken, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Use the tips above to make it just right and keep it in your regular dinner rotation!

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