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Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 25 reviews

Let me tell you, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, no matter the occasion. It’s creamy, garlicky, and packed with comforting flavors you just can’t get enough of. I first tried making it on a busy weeknight when I wanted something quick yet satisfying—and it quickly became a family favorite.

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe stand out is how effortlessly the flavors come together with simple ingredients, delivering that perfect balance of savory and cheesy richness. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or want something cozy to share, this recipe truly hits the spot every time.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Flavor Harmony: The garlic and parmesan blend with tender chicken and creamy pasta to create an irresistible taste combo.
  • One-Pan Convenience: Cooking the chicken and pasta in the same pan saves time and maximizes flavor by using the pan drippings.
  • Quick & Adaptable: Ready in about 35 minutes, it works well for weeknights and can be tweaked with gluten-free pasta or different herbs.
  • Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using freshly grated parmesan and fresh garlic really elevates the dish’s creaminess and depth.
A close-up image of a large metal pan filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken. The dish has two layers: the bottom layer is penne pasta coated in a light cream sauce with a smooth texture, pale yellow in color. On top of the pasta are many pieces of grilled chicken strips, browned and slightly charred with a golden-brown color and visible seasoning. The dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green parsley and grated white cheese, adding small flecks of green and white across the surface. The pan sits on a wooden surface, but the background has been changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe are straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create that richness and balance you want from this dish. Plus, knowing a few tips about each one can help you pick the best versions at the store and get perfect results in your kitchen.

  • Avocado oil or olive oil: Great for cooking chicken with a mild flavor and high smoke point, so your chicken sears nicely without burning.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or pounded thin for quick, even cooking and tender bites every time.
  • Italian seasoning: A simple mix of herbs that brings a familiar and comforting Italian flavor profile to the chicken.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color to the chicken.
  • Salt & pepper: Essential to bring out all the flavors—season generously but adjust to your taste.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce without making it greasy, enhancing the creamy texture.
  • Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and a savory base to complement the garlic.
  • Garlic: The star of the dish—fresh and minced for real punch and aroma.
  • Penne pasta: Holds onto the sauce well, but feel free to swap with gluten-free or protein-enriched pasta based on your needs.
  • Chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor as it simmers with the pasta, giving the dish a comforting, savory background.
  • Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is key for the best melt and flavor, creating that creamy, cheesy sauce we love.
  • Heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich without overpowering the other flavors.
  • Parsley: A fresh herb finishing touch that brightens and balances the richness.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe my own by switching up herbs or adding veggies when I want to sneak in some greens. It’s a versatile base, so don’t hesitate to customize it to what you enjoy most.

  • Variation: Sometimes I swap Italian seasoning with fresh thyme and rosemary for a fragrant twist that my friends really appreciate.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Using gluten-free or protein-enriched pasta works wonderfully here without sacrificing texture.
  • Added Veggies: Tossing in spinach or mushrooms during the garlic step packs extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season Your Chicken Just Right

Start by mixing your Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pat the chicken breasts dry—this helps the seasoning stick—and rub both sides with the seasoning mix generously. This step sets the flavor foundation for juicy, tasty chicken every time.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat a large pan over medium heat and add avocado oil. When it’s hot but not smoking, add the chicken breasts. Cook 3 to 5 minutes per side until they’re nicely golden and cooked through (use a thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature). Then let the chicken rest aside—you want those juices to soak back in.

Step 3: Build Your Flavor Base

Lower the heat to medium-low, add a bit more avocado oil plus butter to the pan. Toss in your diced onion and a pinch of salt, cooking until soft and translucent—about 3 minutes. Then add the garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. This step smells like a dream and makes your sauce pop.

Step 4: Deglaze and Cook the Pasta

Pour in chicken broth and scrape up all those tasty browned bits from the pan bottom—this technique adds tons of flavor. Let the broth come to a gentle boil, then add the dry penne pasta. Stir so the pasta stays submerged. Cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente, stirring once or twice.

Step 5: Finish with Cream, Cheese & Parsley

Turn off the heat and stir in parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and freshly chopped parsley. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly—you’ll see it become silky and irresistible. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Slice, Combine & Serve

Slice your perfectly rested chicken into strips and add them back to the pan with the creamy pasta. Give everything a gentle toss so those flavors marry beautifully. Serve hot, maybe with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and parsley for good measure—and enjoy every bite!

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Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

  • Butterfly the Chicken: I find pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook quickly and evenly without drying out.
  • Fresh Parmesan: Always grate your own parmesan finely to avoid clumping and get that perfectly smooth sauce texture.
  • Don’t Rush the Rest: Resting the chicken after cooking locks in the juices, so you get tender, flavorful bites.
  • Check Pasta Early: Start checking the pasta a minute or two before time’s up to avoid overcooking—it should be just firm enough with a slight bite.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

A close-up of creamy pasta with grilled strips of chicken mixed throughout. The pasta is penne, covered in a light beige sauce with specks of green herbs and black pepper sprinkled on top. The chicken pieces are golden brown with grill marks, scattered evenly among the pasta. A black fork holds a small bite of pasta and chicken near the center. The dish is served in a shallow white bowl with a larger silver pan holding more pasta in the background, all placed on a wooden surface with a white cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I typically finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra handful of parmesan cheese. Sometimes I add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat—just enough to wake up your taste buds without overpowering the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus pairs beautifully here. Garlic bread or crusty baguette is also a no-brainer for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like plating the pasta in shallow bowls and layering the sliced chicken on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few fresh basil leaves elevate the look, making it feel fancy without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the meal, I let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers. They stay fresh well in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for a quick reheat lunch.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze the heavy cream sauce since it can separate, but if you want to freeze, store the chicken and pasta separately without the cream. When ready, thaw and gently reheat with fresh cream stirred in for best results.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat this dish is gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Stir frequently to keep it creamy and prevent the cheese from clumping.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of pasta in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe?

    Absolutely! While penne is recommended because it holds the sauce well, you can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly based on the pasta you choose.

  2. What’s the best way to avoid clumpy parmesan cheese in the sauce?

    Freshly and finely grating your parmesan using the smallest holes on your grater is key. Adding it off the heat helps it melt smoothly. Avoid pre-grated cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

  3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free or low-fat?

    Yes! Use dairy-free cream substitutes like coconut cream and a vegan parmesan alternative to keep it creamy without dairy. For lower fat, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich.

  4. How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?

    A meat thermometer is your best friend here—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, slicing into the thickest part should reveal no pink and clear juices.

  5. Can I prepare parts of this ahead of time?

    You can definitely season and butterfly the chicken in advance and prep your garlic and onion. The actual cooking is best done fresh for the creamiest results, but you can have the broth and pasta ready to simplify weeknight cooking.

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe enough—it’s comfort food that feels a little special every time I make it. It’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for sharing with guests, and each creamy, garlicky bite reminds me why this dish has earned a regular spot in my kitchen rotation. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, because it’s truly the kind of meal you’ll want to come back to again and again.

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with Italian seasonings and paprika, served over perfectly al dente penne pasta simmered in a garlic-infused parmesan cream sauce. This recipe combines rich flavors with simple ingredients for an easy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness
  • 1 tbsp italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
  • 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free or protein pasta)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub both sides with the seasoning mixture thoroughly.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tbsp avocado oil. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining avocado oil and butter to the pan. Add the diced onion and season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes or until the onion becomes tender and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute while stirring.
  4. Add Broth and Pasta: Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the broth to a light boil. Add the dry penne pasta ensuring it is submerged in the broth.
  5. Cook Pasta: Cover the pan and let the pasta cook for 10 minutes or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Make the Sauce: Turn off the heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken into strips. Add the chicken to the pasta and sauce mixture. Toss everything together gently. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • It’s best to freshly grate your own parmesan cheese instead of using pre-grated store-bought cheese for better melting and texture.
  • Use the smallest holes on your grater to achieve finely grated parmesan that blends smoothly into the sauce.
  • If parmesan clumps, try stirring it in slowly with the sauce over low heat to prevent clumping.
  • You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
  • For a dairy-free alternative, consider using a plant-based cream and dairy-free parmesan substitute.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 580 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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