The Ultimate One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Creamy, cheesy comfort food meets weeknight convenience in this mouthwatering garlic parmesan chicken and pasta one-pan wonder.

Simple ingredients dance together in a single skillet, creating a symphony of rich flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The tender chicken mingles perfectly with al dente pasta, coated in a luxurious parmesan sauce that screams pure deliciousness.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of garlic-infused goodness and hearty protein.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Weeknight dinner just got an upgrade with this irresistible, crowd-pleasing meal that comes together faster than you can order takeout.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta – One-Pan, All Flavor

• Simplify Cooking: Enjoy a complete meal prepared in just one pan, minimizing cleanup and kitchen mess while maximizing flavor and convenience.
• Quick and Satisfying Meal: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers a hearty, restaurant-quality dish that comes together faster than ordering takeout.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Combining classic ingredients like garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken creates a universally loved meal that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dinner Solution: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences by swapping proteins or using gluten-free pasta, making it a flexible option for various household needs.

Ingredient List for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Magic

• Chicken Breast: A lean and tender protein that becomes golden brown and absorbs the savory seasonings perfectly.

• Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: A blend of herbs and spices that adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Provides richness and helps create a golden-brown exterior on the chicken while adding a smooth, rich flavor to the dish.

• Onion, Garlic: Adds a foundational layer of savory and aromatic flavor that deepens the overall taste profile of the recipe.

• Pasta, Chicken Broth: Creates a hearty and comforting base that allows the pasta to cook and absorb the delicious flavors.

• Parmesan Cheese, Heavy Cream, Parsley: Brings a creamy, tangy richness and a fresh herb note to complete the dish with a luxurious finish.

One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Grab your large skillet and warm the oil over medium-high heat.

Sprinkle the chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and butter.

Toss in the onions and cook until they become soft and see-through.

Drop in the garlic and let it sizzle until its aroma fills the kitchen.

Step 3: Create the Pasta Bath

Pour in the pasta and chicken broth.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat.

Cover the skillet and let it simmer quietly until the pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture, roughly 10 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Creamy Goodness

• Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream
• Fresh parsley

Gently return the chicken to the skillet, allowing everything to warm through and mingle together.

Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this one-pan wonder.

Chicken Pasta Tips for Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
• Watch pasta closely during simmering to prevent overcooking; test for al dente texture by tasting a piece to ensure it's tender but still firm.
• Add parmesan cheese off direct heat to prevent separation and maintain a smooth, creamy sauce consistency.
• Chop fresh parsley just before adding to preserve maximum flavor and vibrant green color.
• Use the same pan throughout cooking to build layers of flavor and minimize cleanup time.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Fans

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free penne or rice pasta. Use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Use less broth and adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking vegetables.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan substitute.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and maintain the same seasoning profile for maximum flavor.

Plating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Dinner Party Delight: Impress guests with this elegant one-pan meal that looks restaurant-quality but is super easy to prepare.
• Family Comfort Feast: Kids and adults will love the creamy pasta and perfectly seasoned chicken, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal cleanup and ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families wanting a delicious homemade dinner without stress.
• Leftover Magic: Store remaining portions in airtight containers for a tasty lunch the next day, as the flavors will develop even more overnight.

Storage Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken and pasta remain fresh and safe to eat.
• Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly, label with date, and freeze up to 2 months. Avoid freezing cream-based sauces as they may separate.
• Warm gently in a pan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or bow-tie pasta that cook quickly and absorb sauce well.

• Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free certified to create a celiac-friendly version.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra protein like diced cooked bacon, additional chicken breast, or stirring in some white beans to increase the protein content.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a similar creamy texture in the dish.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan) Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent garlic parmesan chicken and pasta dances with Italian-inspired flavors in one seamless pan, creating a quick weeknight dinner solution. Creamy parmesan sauce and tender chicken promise a comforting meal you’ll want to savor again and again.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or beaten down to about 0.5 inches thickness
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

Cooking Fats and Aromatics:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 0.5 jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup)
• 4–6 large cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Finishing Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) dry penne pasta, normal or gluten-free
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature with olive oil, creating a sizzling surface for searing chicken.
2. Coat chicken pieces with aromatic blend of Italian herbs, smoky paprika, kosher salt, and cracked pepper, ensuring even seasoning.
3. Sear chicken until exterior develops golden-brown caramelization, approximately 3-4 minutes per side, generating rich flavor complexity.
4. Transfer perfectly cooked chicken to a temporary plate, maintaining its heated temperature.
5. Reduce skillet heat and introduce remaining oil with creamy butter, allowing gentle melting.
6. Introduce finely chopped onions, translating them from crisp to soft and translucent with gentle stirring.
7. Incorporate minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence and creating a fragrant foundation for the dish.
8. Add uncooked pasta directly into skillet, complementing with rich chicken broth.
9. Bring liquid to rolling boil, then immediately lower heat, covering pan to create steamy environment.
10. Simmer pasta until achieving perfect al dente texture, approximately 10 minutes, absorbing surrounding flavors.
11. Blend freshly grated parmesan, velvety heavy cream, and chopped parsley, creating luxurious sauce.
12. Reintroduce seared chicken into skillet, allowing gentle reheating and flavor integration.
13. Serve immediately, presenting a harmonious one-pan culinary experience.

Notes

• Customize the protein by swapping chicken with shrimp, tofu, or plant-based alternatives for diverse dietary needs.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish completely gluten-free without compromising flavor or texture.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and enhances overall taste.
• Try different herb combinations like basil, oregano, or thyme to create unique flavor profiles tailored to personal preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 515 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg