Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe That Dazzles Every Time

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this garlic chicken pasta with its luxurious creamy sauce hits every comfort food mark.

The silky, herb-infused cream sauce coats tender chicken and perfectly al dente pasta with incredible flavor.

Rich parmesan melts seamlessly into each bite, creating a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Fragrant garlic and herbs dance through the sauce, promising a delightful sensory experience.

Fresh ingredients blend effortlessly, turning simple components into a spectacular dish.

Every forkful promises warmth, satisfaction, and pure culinary joy.

When You Crave Creamy Garlic Goodness, Try This Pasta

• Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy weeknights, this creamy garlic chicken pasta comes together in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal go-to meal for hectic schedules.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with rich flavors of garlic, chicken, and creamy Parmesan sauce, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste: Using basic pantry staples and straightforward cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal without complicated preparation or hard-to-find ingredients.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this single-pan recipe that reduces dish washing and streamlines the cooking process, letting you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Shopping List

• Chicken: A lean protein that provides the main substance and flavor for the dish.

• Pasta: The base of the recipe that creates a hearty and satisfying meal.

• Olive Oil: Helps to cook the chicken and create a smooth base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor to the entire dish.
• Chicken Broth: Provides depth and additional savory notes to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy texture for the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and tangy flavor that helps thicken the sauce.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken and sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright green herb that adds a fresh finish and visual appeal to the dish.

Directions for Cooking Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook pasta in salted water following package guidelines.

Once tender, drain completely and set pasta aside in a colander.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season chicken with salt and black pepper.

Cook chicken pieces until golden brown and completely cooked through, ensuring no pink remains inside.

Step 3: Release Garlic Aroma

Lower heat and add minced garlic to the same skillet.

Sauté garlic for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 4: Create Silky Sauce

• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese

Stir ingredients together and bring to a gentle simmer.

Reduce heat and continue stirring until sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked pasta directly into the creamy sauce.

Gently toss pasta using tongs or a wooden spoon, ensuring every strand gets coated with the luxurious sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Transfer to serving plates immediately while hot and enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta.

Tricks for Silky Smooth Garlic Pasta Sauce

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a golden-brown exterior that locks in juicy flavors.
• Adjust sauce thickness by gradually adding pasta water if it becomes too thick, creating a silky smooth texture.
• Toast minced garlic briefly to release its nutty aroma and prevent burning, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lower-calorie version without sacrificing creamy richness.
• Chop fresh parsley just before sprinkling to maximize its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.

Ways to Customize Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a creamy, lactose-free version.
• Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, keeping the same seasonings and cooking method.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure chicken broth is gluten-free certified for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Add red pepper flakes and swap parsley for fresh basil to create a more zesty and aromatic pasta dish.

Garlic Chicken Pasta – Serving Ideas and Pairings

• Pasta Night Perfection: Serve this creamy garlic chicken pasta alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that feels restaurant-worthy.
• Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or basil on top to add brightness and a pop of color that makes the dish look and taste more vibrant.
• Bread Companion: Pair with warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the rich, creamy flavors with a chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio that cuts through the richness perfectly.

Saving Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for Another Day

• Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and seal tightly. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the creamy sauce and chicken fresh and delicious.
• Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each cycle until thoroughly warmed.
• Gently reheat pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add splash of cream or broth to restore creamy consistency, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any pasta shape like fettuccine, penne, or linguine works well. Choose a pasta that can hold the creamy sauce effectively.

• Can I use chicken breasts or thighs?

Both chicken breasts and thighs are suitable. Breasts are leaner, while thighs offer more flavor and tenderness.

• Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt mixed with some milk.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers during the cooking process. These will increase the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta delivers comfort in every forkful, blending Italian-inspired flavors with rich, velvety sauce. Homemade magic emerges from simple ingredients, promising pure satisfaction that draws you into a delightful culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless, skinless (about 1 pound / 454 grams)

Pasta and Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
• 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 6–8 garlic cloves, finely minced

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare pasta according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain and reserve.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes per side.
4. Reduce heat to medium and introduce minced garlic, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Cook until aromatic, about 30-45 seconds.
5. Slowly incorporate chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking to create a smooth, uniform sauce.
6. Allow sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
7. Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the sauce, continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
8. Fold cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.
9. Remove from heat and let rest for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
10. Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein to create a vegetarian version of this comforting dish.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Choose low-fat cream or milk alternatives to reduce overall calorie content without compromising flavor.
• Enhance meal prep by cooking extra chicken and sauce to store in the refrigerator for quick weeknight meals.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 664 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 460 mg
• Fat: 37 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg