Remember those buttery weeknight dinners your mom whipped up in one pot while hollering for someone to set the table? This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is basically that just with viral fame from TikTok and a serious garlic glow-up. Easy recipe, 30 minutes, zero panic. You got this.
This pasta is creamy, cozy, and full of pantry pals like garlic, chicken, and parmesan cheese. Nothing fancyjust real-deal flavor that sticks to your ribs. Think Alfredo vibes with a garlicky hug. Full details in the blog!
I made this once with my daughter while dancing to ’90s hits and only burned the toast on the side (a win). Recipes like this run in our familysimple, satisfying, and slightly chaotic. I tested it. You’ll love the secret that pulls it all together.
One pan, tons of flavor: Creamy, garlicky pasta with spiced chicken, all in just one pot.
Familiar ingredients: Chicken, garlic, heavy cream, and parmesanbasics that pack a punch.
Beginner-friendly: If you can stir, you can absolutely make this.
Versatile: It’s gluten-free, but swap in regular pasta if that’s your thing.
Make it once and you’ll understand why this recipe is on repeat in my house!
Key Ingredients & Tools
These are the stars of the show, and they’re likely hanging out in your pantry already!
Spiced chicken: A simple spice blend of paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, and black pepper takes chicken breast from bland to bold.
Garlic overload: Between the garlic powder and dry shallots, you’ll have plenty of punch without fresh cloves.
That creamy finish: Heavy cream, butter, and shredded parmesan create a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
Tool tip: You only need one large skillet or pan to sauté, simmer, and sauce everything. Easy cleanup!
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
Let’s break it down into simple, no-stress steps:
Cook the pasta: Boil your gluten-free farfalle until al dente. Save ¼ cup of that pasta waterit’s pure sauce magic!
Season & sear the chicken: Rub the chicken with the spice blend, then cook in olive oil until golden brown. Set it aside.
Build the sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and lightly sauté dry shallots and Italian seasoning. Add flour, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth.
Add cheese: Stir in shredded parmesan for a velvety sauce.
Combine: Toss the pasta into the sauce, along with your reserved pasta water. Slice the chicken and nestle it on top. Boom, dinner is ready!
Step
Timing
Cook pasta & reserve water
10 minutes
Season & sear chicken
8 minutes
Make sauce
10 minutes
Combine pasta & chicken
5 minutes
Swap & Customize
This recipe is delicious as-is, but feel free to make it your own:
Ingredient
Possible Swap
Gluten-free farfalle
Regular pasta
Heavy cream
Half-and-half (for a lighter sauce)
Butter
Ghee or plant-based butter
Shredded parmesan
Grated Romano or Pecorino
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store and reheat:
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Not idealcream sauces can split, but if you must, freeze for up to 1 month.
Storage Method
Time
Tips
Fridge
3 days
Add extra broth when reheating.
Freezer
1 month
Freeze sauce and chicken separately if possible.
Expert Insight: Mastering Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Chicken garlic parmesan pasta combines rich, savory flavors with protein and creamy textures, making it a balanced comfort dish. Using fresh garlic and real Parmesan elevates the depth of flavor, while properly cooking the pasta ensures the perfect al dente bite that complements the sauce’s creaminess.
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A Little Kitchen Nostalgia
Every time I make this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, I’m reminded of the first time Rachel and I tried it togetherhalf the garlic landed in the pan, the other half on the floor. Somehow, that little chaos turned into one of our favorite comfort meals, proving perfect dishes can come from imperfect moments.
FAQs ( Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta )
What type of pasta works best for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Fettuccine and penne are the most popular choices for this dish because they hold the creamy garlic parmesan sauce beautifully. Fettuccine’s flat surface allows the sauce to cling perfectly, while penne’s ridges trap all that delicious flavor. You can also use linguine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand – the key is choosing a pasta that will grab onto that rich, creamy sauce!
How do I keep my chicken tender and juicy?
The secret to perfectly tender chicken is not overcooking it! Use a meat thermometer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then remove from heat immediately. Pound your chicken to an even thickness before cooking so it cooks uniformly, and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. Season the chicken well with salt and pepper, and don’t move it around too much in the pan – let it develop that beautiful golden crust first.
Can I make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?
While this pasta is definitely best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time to make weeknight cooking easier. Cook and slice your chicken up to 2 days in advance, and store it covered in the refrigerator. You can also make the sauce base without the cheese and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently, add the cheese, and toss with freshly cooked pasta and warmed chicken.
Why does my cheese sauce sometimes get clumpy or separate?
Cheese sauce drama is usually caused by too much heat or adding cheese too quickly! Always remove your pan from direct heat before adding parmesan, and add it gradually while stirring constantly. Use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded for the smoothest results, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. If your sauce does break, try whisking in a tablespoon of warm pasta water to bring it back together.
What can I serve alongside Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Since this pasta is pretty rich and indulgent, pair it with something fresh and light! A crisp Caesar salad or mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add nice color and nutrition to your plate. Don’t forget some crusty garlic bread for sopping up any extra sauce – because let’s be honest, you won’t want to waste a drop of that creamy goodness!
Wrapping It Up
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta delivers comfort in under 30 minutes with creamy, garlicky goodness that feels like a warm kitchen hug. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights, yet satisfying enough to make you wanna invite friends over for seconds. You’ll love how the familiar ingredients come alive without any fuss.
Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape or sneak in some spinach for a veggie boost. Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of brothpro tip I’ve learned after many kitchen experiments. This recipe is as flexible as it is forgiving; perfect for your family table or solo cozy nights.
Got a twist on this classic? Snap a pic or share your tweaksI adore hearing your stories in the kitchen. Did you grow up with dishes like this? Pass it along to someone who needs a little delicious joy today. Cozy food, happy heartslet’s keep cooking together!
This easy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gluten free pasta for a delicious, comforting meal perfect for any night of the week.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas—together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
