Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

There are nights when I want a meal that’s both comforting and a little elegant — something that feels special, even if the day has been anything but. If you can relate, this creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish you’ll love as much as I do. In just 30 minutes, this rich, satisfying dish can be on the table, turning a busy weeknight into a relaxing, restaurant-worthy dinner. With a short list of everyday ingredients, this Italian-inspired dish captures the essence of gourmet cooking with ease.

It’s amazing how kitchen staples like tender chicken, hearty pasta, olive oil, butter, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese come together to create something so satisfying. The rich blend of flavors feels both hearty and refined, while a sprinkle of parsley just before serving adds a touch of vibrant color and freshness. This meal delivers bold flavor with minimal effort, and the cleanup? Barely worth mentioning. It’s also easily customizable — see below for a few ways to make it your own!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients

• Fettuccini: Fettuccini works great here, but any long, slender pasta like spaghetti or linguine will do. When I use fresh pasta, I bump it up to 12 ounces.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra-virgin olive oil is key for the best flavor.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Look for fresh, well-trimmed pieces that are plump and pink.
• Butter: You can use salted or unsalted butter and adjust the salt to taste.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for the bold flavor in the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This dish is all about creamy texture, so it’s worth the indulgence.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grating it fresh from a block gives the dish a much better texture and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional for garnish, but I like how it adds a bright, fresh touch to the finished dish.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Recipe Options

• Chicken Variation: If you prefer a juicier and more flavorful cut of meat, substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Herb Variations: Add chopped fresh basil, thyme, or a dried herb blend like Italian seasoning for a fresh, herbaceous twist.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Sautéed spinach or zucchini are easy ways to make this dish a little heartier — especially when I want it to feel like a full meal on its own. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cooked vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to add a rich, tangy flavor.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice bit of heat if you’re in the mood for a little spice.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover pasta refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a generous splash of leftover pasta water (or a splash of cream, half and half, milk or water), gently stirring occasionally until heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve topped with grated parmesan cheese.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish transforms a simple comfort food like pasta into an elegant meal, perfect for everything from family weeknights to entertaining guests. It won’t have you rushing to the store for a long list of ingredients or take up your entire evening to make. Keep this recipe in your regular rotation for times when you want something satisfying, impressive, and surprisingly easy to prepare.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook seasoned chicken until just cooked through, then remove.

In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, and simmer with heavy cream until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese and return chicken to pan.

Add cooked pasta to the skillet, heating and loosening sauce with reserved pasta water as needed. Season with salt and pepper, and serve in a bowl or platter, garnished with additional parmesan and parsley if you like.