Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

I absolutely love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe because it brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into one unforgettable dish. The rich garlic and Parmesan flavors blend beautifully with the spices on the chicken, creating a comforting dinner I always find myself craving. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe never fails to impress and is surprisingly quick to pull together on a busy weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This recipe hits all the right notes for me: it’s packed with flavor, yet simple enough that making it doesn’t feel like a chore. I adore the way the garlic and Parmesan come through in the sauce, offering a creamy, savory richness that’s balanced perfectly by the aromatic spices rubbed on the chicken. Every bite feels indulgent without being over the top.

What excites me most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare, even when I’m short on time. The steps flow naturally from pan-searing the chicken to whisking up that luscious sauce right in the same skillet, which means fewer dishes and more flavor thanks to those delicious browned bits on the pan’s bottom. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners but also fancy enough to serve at holidays or casual dinner parties — it always brings everyone together around the table happily.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe are simple and each plays a key role in crafting the depth of flavor, creaminess, and perfect texture. These essentials come together to create a dish that feels satisfying yet approachable.

• 1 lb shortcut pasta (Rigatoni recommended): Holds the sauce beautifully and cooks al dente quickly.
• 1 lb chicken breast, pounded thin: Ensures even cooking and tender meat.
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil: Helps the spices stick and crisps the chicken outside.
• 2 teaspoons oregano: Adds a fragrant herbal note that complements garlic perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and color.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage: Provides warmth and an earthy aroma.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just the right hint of heat.
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter: Builds richness in the sauce.
• 5 cloves minced garlic: Fresh garlic cooks gently to fragrant perfection.
• 3 Tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce for that silky texture.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps deglaze the pan.
• 2 cups milk: Creates creaminess; any kind works for your preference.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Amp up the sauce’s decadence.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that melds everything together.
• Parsley, Parmesan, and/or red pepper flakes to garnish: Adds freshness and a finishing touch.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve one cup of pasta water before draining the pasta; don’t rinse it so the sauce will stick better.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, toss your chicken breasts with olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, dried sage, and red pepper flakes. Make sure each piece is well coated with the spices for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high. Once it shimmers, add your chicken and sear for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway. If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, add small splashes of water to keep it cooking evenly. Use a thermometer aiming for 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part.

Step 4: Remove the cooked chicken to a plate or cutting board and set it aside to rest while you make the sauce.

Step 5: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour to make a thick paste that will thicken your sauce.

Step 6: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps and to scrape off any flavorful browned bits from the chicken. This deglazing step adds amazing depth to your sauce.

Step 7: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking as the sauce simmers gently for 2 to 3 minutes until thick and creamy. If it’s not bubbling slightly around the edges, gently increase the heat.

Step 8: Stir in the Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely for that luscious, glossy finish.

Step 9: Add your cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. Use the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.

Step 10: Slice the rested chicken into thin strips and serve it over the creamy pasta. Garnish generously with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan shavings, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to make the dish pop visually and flavor-wise.

Servings and Timing

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe serves 6 hearty portions, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, mostly prepping the chicken and ingredients, while the cooking takes around 20 minutes. Altogether, the total time is a manageable 30 minutes, with no resting time needed beyond the chicken resting briefly after cooking to retain juiciness.

How to Serve This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

When I serve this dish, I like to keep things simple but elegant. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness and color, making the plate feel balanced and inviting.

For garnishing, I adore adding freshly chopped parsley to bring a pop of herbal brightness and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for more intense flavor and a beautiful presentation. If you want to impress guests, a few red pepper flakes scattered on top give the dish a festive touch and a little heat. I usually serve this pasta hot, straight from the stove, but it also holds beautifully if kept warm for a buffet or family-style meal.

When it comes to drinks, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay pairs perfectly, complementing the creamy sauce without overpowering it. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or an herbal iced tea balances the richness nicely. This meal is great for weeknights, celebratory dinners, or casual weekend lunches — it always feels like a special occasion.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For instance, swapping rigatoni for gluten-free pasta works wonderfully without sacrificing texture. Using vegan butter and plant-based milk transforms this into a tasty dairy-free version that still delivers creamy satisfaction.

You can also switch the chicken breast for juicy thigh meat if you want a slightly richer flavor and a more forgiving cut of meat. If you like a bit of green in your dish, tossing in fresh spinach or peas during the last few minutes of sauce cooking adds brightness and nutrients. For an extra kick, try stirring in sun-dried tomatoes or swapping paprika for smoked paprika to deepen the smoky notes.

Another fun twist is to make the sauce more herbaceous by adding fresh basil or thyme alongside the parsley garnish. If you want a shortcut, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing, which adds a lovely char flavor. The key is keeping the sauce velvety and rich, which truly makes this recipe shine regardless of the tweaks.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I like to use glass containers with tight-fitting lids because they keep the pasta fresh and prevent any funky odors from sneaking in. The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe leftovers will stay delicious for up to 3 days, which makes it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but I recommend freezing the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce if possible to maintain the best texture. Use freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This way, it’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve creaminess.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or broth helps loosen and revive the sauce, preventing it from drying out or becoming grainy. Avoid reheating in the microwave at high power, as this can make the cheese sauce separate and the chicken tough. Slow and steady heat is key to bringing back that creamy texture and rich flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute penne, fusilli, or farfalle—any short pasta with ridges or curves works well to catch every bit of that creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce thickening. Many gluten-free options yield similar textures so you won’t miss a beat.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the spice-rubbed chicken and even cook the pasta a little ahead of time, but I recommend making the sauce and tossing everything together just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with an equal part of half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese to maintain creaminess. Full-fat coconut milk also works well for a dairy-free alternative but will add a subtle coconut flavor.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe enough — it’s a true crowd-pleaser with its comforting creaminess, tender chicken, and vibrant seasonings. It’s a recipe I reach for time and again when I want something cozy yet elegant without fuss. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too!

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