Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with a pasta dish that brings together the ultimate comfort trio: a velvety sauce, tender chicken, and rich flavors from garlic and cheese! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is that irresistible meal you crave after a long day, transforming a few simple ingredients into something truly magical. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself (hello, cozy night in!), this dish ticks every box: quick, easy, and oh so satisfying. Let’s dive into what makes this creamy masterpiece such a staple in my kitchen!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is in its straightforward, familiar ingredients—each one plays a crucial role. From the way the garlic infuses the sauce to the creamy tang of Parmesan, these are the must-haves for that luscious, dreamy finish and vibrant taste.

Pasta: Fettuccine is classic, but you can pick your favorite pasta shape to soak up all that creamy sauce.
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken makes it easy to cook and slice—plus, it stays juicy and tender.
Olive oil: Adds a lovely fruity base for searing the chicken and helps meld other flavors together.
Salt and pepper: The essential duo to bring every ingredient to life.
Garlic (minced): Four fresh cloves give the sauce its irresistibly inviting aroma and subtle kick.
Heavy cream: The secret to that unforgettable silky-smooth sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness.
Chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory backbone to balance out the creaminess.
Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to round out each bite with a whisper of the Mediterranean.
Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green for color and a hint of freshness right before serving.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your pasta of choice—traditionally fettuccine, but really, anything goes here. Cook according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Don’t forget: reserve a splash of pasta water before draining! That little trick can help loosen the sauce later and make everything silky.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While your pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for around six to seven minutes per side, or until they’re golden outside and cooked through (165°F is the magic number). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking so it stays juicy when sliced.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Turn the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the same skillet, letting it sizzle for about a minute until your kitchen smells positively heavenly. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to bring them together. Let the sauce gently simmer, making sure it doesn’t boil too fiercely.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Watch as the cheese melts right in, making the sauce thick, creamy, and oh-so-indulgent. Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed—sometimes Parmesan brings a lot of saltiness, so adjust gently.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce

Toss your drained pasta and sliced chicken right into the skillet, coating every strand and morsel in that rich, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency. This is where Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta truly comes together—creamy, garlicky, and delicious with every twirl.

Step 6: Serve

Dish up the pasta hot and finish with a shower of freshly chopped parsley for color and a dash of brightness. Serve immediately, while everything is at peak creaminess!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

A finishing touch of freshly grated Parmesan is always a hit, but a little chopped fresh parsley or even a dusting of cracked black pepper can elevate each plate. Want to go the extra mile? Toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of top-quality olive oil look beautiful and taste wonderful.

Side Dishes

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta pairs beautifully with side dishes that bring a fresh crunch or a bit of tang. Think a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, roasted broccoli, garlicky asparagus, or a warm basket of crusty bread for scooping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the pasta into bowls, twirling each portion neatly with tongs. Top with extra chicken slices and a flourish of herb garnish. You can also present the dish family-style on a big platter, letting everyone help themselves—great for gatherings or weeknight dinners with a bit of flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to three days, and the flavors only get better as they meld together overnight.

Freezing

This pasta can be frozen, though for best results, freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta. Both elements can be stored in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for a quick future dinner.

Reheating

To reheat, splash a little milk or cream into the pasta before warming it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir frequently and keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from separating. If reheating sauce alone, the same trick applies—a little extra moisture brings everything back to that dreamy, creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, any pasta shape works. Penne, linguine, spaghetti, or even short shapes like rigatoni hold up well under the creamy sauce.

What can I use instead of chicken?

Feel free to swap the chicken for sautéed shrimp, pan-seared tofu, or even keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. The sauce is delicious with just about anything!

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream instead of all heavy cream. Skipping or reducing the cheese will also lighten things up, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and chicken a day ahead. When it’s time to serve, cook fresh pasta, reheat the sauce and chicken together, then toss with hot noodles for a dinner that tastes freshly made.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, portion it into meal containers, and refrigerate. It reheats well (just add a splash of extra liquid when reheating), making it perfect for lunches and dinners all week long.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a recipe that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta is your answer. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it really is that good! Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a plateful of creamy, garlicky goodness soon.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce. A satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest and slice.
Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic in the skillet. Add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer, then add Parmesan and seasoning.
Add Cheese: Whisk in Parmesan until creamy. Adjust seasoning.
Combine: Toss pasta and chicken in the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian