Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Easy 30-Minute Comfort Food!
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner! Tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in just 30 minutes. It's cozy, flavorful, and made with simple pantry staples. Whether you're feeding the family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder delivers creamy perfection with minimal effort. Save it now for your next comfort food craving!
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board & knife
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to taste)
Pasta
- 8 oz penne, rotini, or fettuccine
- Salt (for pasta water)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Add-Ins
- Fresh parsley or thyme
- Optional: spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through (5–7 minutes per side). Rest, then slice.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
- Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
- Finish: Stir in fresh herbs and optional veggies. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Chicken can be swapped for rotisserie or leftover grilled meat.
- Half-and-half or coconut milk can replace cream for lighter or dairy-free versions.
- Add-ins like spinach or mushrooms boost nutrition and flavor.
- Sauce thickens as it cools—serve immediately or reheat gently with a splash of milk.