Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Easy 30-Minute Dinner!)
Craving a cozy, delicious dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Juicy chicken, a silky garlic Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta come together in one irresistible dish the whole family will love!Save this easy dinner idea for your next meal plan! #ChickenPasta #EasyDinner #30MinuteMeals #CreamyPasta #ComfortFood
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs or wooden spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
Ingredients
Protein & Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
Sauce & Flavor Base:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ins & Garnishes:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 lemon, for brightness
- 1 cup baby spinach, mushrooms, or other veggies (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.Remove chicken, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add more butter or olive oil if needed.Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.Pour in chicken broth and cream; stir and let simmer for 3–5 minutes.Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Combine & Serve:
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.Add sliced chicken and mix gently until heated through.Garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make it dairy-free: Use unsweetened coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan.
- Gluten-free: Swap for gluten-free pasta — all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian option: Omit chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
- Reheating tip: Add a splash of milk or broth before reheating to keep sauce creamy.
- Make it spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce base.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 1 month.