Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Easy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is one of those dishes I keep coming back to — creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Juicy pieces of seasoned chicken are tossed with tender pasta in a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like comfort food without being too heavy or complicated.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how simple this recipe is while still tasting like something I could order at a restaurant. The garlic-Parmesan combo is rich and satisfying, and everything comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s family-friendly, uses basic ingredients I usually have on hand, and it reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers too.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika (optional, for color and depth)
• Olive oil
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well)
• Butter
• Fresh garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, then set it aside.
3. Meanwhile, I cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. I pour in the chicken broth and cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
6. I stir in the Parmesan and let it melt into a smooth sauce. I season to taste.
7. I return the chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well coated. I use a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
8. I garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for a veggie boost.
• I swap the chicken for shrimp or rotisserie chicken when I need a shortcut.
• I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta depending on what I have.
• I stir in crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. This dish also freezes fairly well — I just let it cool completely before sealing in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

Can I make this without cream?

Yes, I’ve used half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mix of milk and a little cream cheese to get a creamy texture without heavy cream.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

I usually go with short pasta like penne or rotini because they hold the sauce well, but fettuccine or spaghetti also works beautifully.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Definitely. I often use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken — I just stir it in at the end to warm through.

Can I make it lighter?

Yes, I use low-fat milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese slightly. I also use olive oil in place of butter when I want a lighter version.

Is it kid-friendly?

Very! The flavors are mild, creamy, and cheesy — it’s one of those dishes that even picky eaters tend to love.

Conclusion

Easy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dish I can rely on anytime I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s full of flavor, made with simple ingredients, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether I serve it as-is or dress it up with veggies or spice, it always hits the spot.

Print