Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Recipe)
If you're looking for a quick, satisfying, and creamy dinner, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the answer. Tender chicken, a rich parmesan-garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in 30 minutes for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into small chunks
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- Start the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30–60 seconds.
- Simmer: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer 4–5 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese & chicken: Stir in parmesan until melted and smooth. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer 2 minutes.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until coated. If needed, loosen with a splash of pasta water or broth.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley (and extra parmesan). Serve hot.
Notes
Tips: Use freshly grated parmesan for a silkier sauce; cook pasta al dente so it holds up. Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli during the last few minutes. For a lighter version, swap part of the cream with milk and add a bit of cream cheese for body. To make it gluten-free, use GF pasta.
Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.