One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

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There’s something about a creamy, garlicky pasta dish that instantly turns a hectic evening into a cozy dinner moment. That’s exactly what happened when I first whipped up this One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight. I wanted something comforting but not fussy, and this dish came together with tender golden chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety Parmesan sauce—all in one skillet. It’s now a go-to favorite in my weekly rotation.

What I love most about this recipe is how it delivers maximum flavor with minimal mess. Everything cooks together, allowing the pasta to soak up the garlic-infused sauce while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. It’s hearty, creamy, and just garlicky enough to be addictive without overpowering. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

• It all comes together in one pan—less cleanup, more convenience.
• Rich, creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
• Juicy, golden-brown chicken adds satisfying texture and protein.
• Garlic and Parmesan bring bold flavor without needing complicated ingredients.
• Family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and easily doubled for guests.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While I used penne in this version, you can use any short pasta that holds sauce well—think rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Penne works beautifully because the creamy Parmesan sauce fills the tube-like shape, giving you a burst of flavor in every bite. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the type of pasta you choose.

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Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap chicken breast with boneless thighs for more richness or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Parmesan: Aged Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives if you’re looking to switch up the cheese flavor.
• Cream: Half and half or evaporated milk can replace heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Garlic: Garlic powder works in a pinch, though fresh garlic gives the best depth.
• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat versions work well here—just keep an eye on cooking times.

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Ingredients for this One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

• Chicken breasts – The star protein of the dish, seared until golden brown for flavor and texture.
• Penne pasta – A sturdy pasta shape that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic adds bold, aromatic depth to the dish.
• Heavy cream – This is the base for the sauce, giving it rich, velvety texture.
• Chicken broth – Infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks and thins out the sauce to the right consistency.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and essential for that signature cheesy flavor.
• Olive oil – Used to sear the chicken and sauté the garlic.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps form the base of the creamy sauce.
• Salt and black pepper – Enhances and balances the flavors.
• Chopped parsley – For a fresh, vibrant finish and color contrast.

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness). Remove and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add a bit of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

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Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up all the brown bits. Then add the heavy cream and stir until combined. Bring to a gentle simmer.

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Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the skillet. Stir to coat and make sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.

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Step 5: Add Parmesan and Stir

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

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Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan, nestling it into the creamy pasta. Spoon some sauce over the top and let everything warm together for a few minutes.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness and color. Serve hot directly from the skillet for that cozy, rustic presentation.

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How Long to Prepare the One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

Preparing this recipe takes a total of about 35 to 40 minutes, broken down into a few key stages. The great news is that everything is cooked in one pan, which helps speed up the process and minimizes cleanup.

Prep Time: Around 10-15 minutes for slicing the chicken, mincing garlic, measuring ingredients, and getting everything ready.
Cooking Time: Another 20-25 minutes, including searing the chicken, building the sauce, cooking the pasta, and letting everything come together in the skillet.

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Tips for Perfect One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight

• Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook uniformly.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain juiciness.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—taste test towards the end of simmering.
• Stir occasionally while pasta cooks to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pan.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Burning the garlic: It turns bitter quickly, so keep heat medium-low when sautéing.
• Overcooking chicken: It gets dry fast—use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s just right.
• Skipping deglazing: Those browned bits add flavor, so always scrape the pan with broth.
• Adding cheese too early: Wait until the pasta is cooked to avoid curdling or clumps.
• Not enough liquid for pasta: If it looks dry, add a splash of broth while simmering.

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What to Serve With One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight?

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery, it’s the perfect companion to soak up that creamy sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons add balance to the rich pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred, earthy flavor cuts through the creamy richness.

4. Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on a stick offer a refreshing contrast.

5. Lemon Herb Asparagus

Light, zesty, and quick to roast while your pasta simmers.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Freezer: You can freeze it, though the cream sauce may separate slightly. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, stirring in a bit of cream to revive the texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary depending on exact ingredients used.

• Calories: 580 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half is better than low-fat options.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep ingredients and cook the chicken ahead, but it’s best assembled fresh so the pasta doesn’t overcook.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stir in a bit of hot sauce with the cream.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or peas can be added during the pasta simmering stage.

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Conclusion

This One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and golden seared chicken, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any weeknight. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing dinner guests, it delivers every time with warmth, flavor, and simplicity in one skillet.

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