Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Classic

Few dishes bring comfort like a creamy pasta, and when you add tender chicken, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the mix, you’ve got a meal that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a simple yet decadent dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • For the Pasta:
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

    • Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken:

      • Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
      • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

      Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

        • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
        • Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, reducing slightly.
        • Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of the reserved pasta water.
        • Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

        Combine Everything:

          • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce until well coated.
          • Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, tossing them with the pasta and sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.

          Serve and Garnish:

            • Transfer the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to serving plates.
            • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

            Read: A Cozy Dinner: Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Lentil Pasta & Bruschetta with Goat Cheese on Sourdough Baguette

            The Perfect Comfort Meal

            This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comforting meal—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The garlic and Parmesan create a luscious sauce that clings to each strand of pasta, while the tender chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.

            Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete dinner that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this pasta dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.