🖋️ Written by Olivia
Picture this. It’s 7 PM, your stomach is growling, and you’re one step away from ordering takeout. But then you remember that you have everything you need to whip up Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. No stress, no fancy tools—just golden sautéed chicken, buttery garlic, melty parmesan, and pasta tossed in a creamy sauce that sticks to your soul.
That’s the beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. It feels like comfort food, but you can make it on a Tuesday night without breaking a sweat. It’s rich, savory, and packed with the kind of flavor that makes everyone ask for seconds—even the picky eaters.
Want more weeknight favorites like this? Try this next: Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Table of Contents
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken breasts thinly and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Sear chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in the remaining butter until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until sauce thickens slightly. Do not boil.
- Return chicken to the pan, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil and extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Ingredients List
Everything You Need for This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
This is not the time to overcomplicate things. Every ingredient below plays a clear role in making the most comforting, creamy plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta you’ve had all week. You probably already have most of them at home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 2 large (sliced thin) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Minced garlic | 4 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Fresh grated parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Cooked pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini) | 12 oz |
| Reserved pasta water | ½ cup (optional) |
| Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
This is all it takes. No weird ingredients. No mystery sauces. Just what you need to build flavor from scratch and enjoy every bite.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in Under 30 Minutes
Quick dinner with zero guesswork
This isn’t one of those recipes that require a culinary degree. You brown the chicken, sauté the garlic, and let everything melt together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Toss in cooked pasta, and you’re good to go.
Need another easy option that’s kid-approved? Easy Apple Casserole
Your pantry’s new best friend
All you need is chicken breasts, garlic, butter, cream, parmesan, and your favorite pasta. That’s it. No complicated ingredients or last-minute grocery runs.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta with Creamy Sauce
Make the creamiest garlic parmesan sauce
Start with butter and minced garlic. Let that golden magic happen before adding cream and freshly grated parmesan. The sauce thickens just enough to coat every strand of pasta and every piece of chicken.
Looking for another creamy classic? Creamy Avocado Lime Tart
Add pasta like a pro
Reserve some pasta water before draining. Stir it into the sauce if it needs a little help clinging to your noodles. It’s the small step that makes a big difference.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta for Meal Prep
Make it ahead and thank yourself later
This recipe reheats beautifully. Store it in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Perfect for lunches or weeknight dinners when you don’t want to cook again.
Want more make-ahead meals? Crock Pot Keto Crack Chicken
Best ways to reheat
Skip the microwave if you can. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or water to bring it back to life.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Everyone Will Love
Even the kids won’t complain
No weird flavors or textures. Just creamy pasta, juicy chicken, and enough garlic to taste amazing—but not overpowering. You can even sneak in spinach or mushrooms if you’re feeling bold.
Need a dinner that impresses guests too? Garlic Steak Bites and Potatoes
Family style dinner win
Serve this in a big bowl with extra parmesan on top. Add garlic bread and a salad, and dinner is done.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Cooking Tips
Don’t overcook the chicken
Use thin chicken breasts or cutlets for quick and even cooking. Sear until golden, then set aside while you build your sauce.
For another crispy chicken idea: Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Parmesan matters
Use fresh parmesan—not the shelf-stable kind. It melts better and gives the sauce a deep, nutty flavor that’s worth the extra few seconds of grating.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the seasoning
Salt the pasta water, season the chicken, and taste your sauce as you go. Underseasoning is the enemy of good food.
Need a backup dish if this flops (it won’t)? Frozen Strawberry Lemonade
Don’t let the sauce break
Keep your heat low when adding the cream and cheese. Too hot and it could split or turn gritty.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Storage and Freezing Tips
How to store leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can you freeze this dish?
You can, but it’s best without the pasta. Freeze the sauce and chicken separately, then boil fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Calories can vary depending on ingredients, but a typical serving contains between 500 and 800 calories.
What to serve with chicken parmigiana for a healthy dinner?
Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Is garlic parmesan sauce healthy?
Garlic parmesan sauce is typically high in fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.
What pasta goes with chicken parmesan healthy?
Whole wheat pasta, chickpea pasta, or zucchini noodles are healthier alternatives that pair well with chicken parmesan.
What sauce to use with chicken parm?
Classic marinara sauce is the traditional choice for chicken parm.
What pasta is most common with chicken parmesan?
Spaghetti is the most commonly served pasta with chicken parmesan.
What is the healthiest parmesan?
Parmigiano-Reggiano is a natural cheese with minimal additives and may be considered a healthier parmesan option.
How many calories are in creamy garlic parmesan chicken?
Depending on the portion size and ingredients, it can range from 400 to 700 calories per serving.
Is prego alfredo sauce healthy?
Prego Alfredo Sauce is high in calories and saturated fat, so it should be used in moderation.
What salad pairs well with chicken parm?
A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with chicken parm.
What to have with parmigiana for dinner?
You can serve it with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete dinner.
What do Italians eat with parmigiana?
In Italy, parmigiana is often served with a simple salad or crusty bread, not pasta.
What to season plain chicken with?
Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
What’s in garlic parmesan sauce?
Garlic parmesan sauce usually contains garlic, butter, cream, parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
Can you freeze garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Yes, it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is the dinner you didn’t know you needed—but once you make it, it’s going into your weekly rotation. It’s creamy, flavorful, and tastes like it took hours even though it didn’t.
Want more like this?
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Let’s make something delicious.
