Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or beaten to ½" thickness; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for chicken searing); 1 lb long pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine); 1 tbsp olive oil (for pasta water); 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce); ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup); 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker sauce); 1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving; ½ tsp salt, or to taste (for sauce); ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste (for sauce); ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); ½ cup reserved pasta water; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to a world of rich, comforting flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your soul. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy, aromatic sauce, infused with the pungent warmth of garlic and the sharp, salty goodness of Parmesan cheese, all perfectly coating a bed of al dente pasta. This delightful combination, while seemingly a modern classic, draws its essence from the heart of Italian-American culinary traditions, where simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed into extraordinary comfort food, becoming a beloved staple in countless homes over generations.

I find that people absolutely adore this dish for countless reasons. The irresistible aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen! It’s the perfect harmony of savory chicken, the unmistakable zing of fresh garlic, and the deeply satisfying umami of Parmesan, creating a taste profile that is both sophisticated and incredibly approachable. This dish offers the ultimate comfort, with a rich texture and a flavor that makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or a standout dish for a special gathering, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta delivers on all fronts – it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Get ready to create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total), or 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Pasta:

1 lb long pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine work wonderfully)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for the pasta water)
1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6-8 cloves garlic, finely minced (I absolutely love garlic, so I tend to go for 8!)
¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
1 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium is best)
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving (grating it yourself makes a huge difference!)
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
½ cup reserved pasta water (essential for emulsifying and adjusting sauce consistency)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken for Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta

Prepare the Chicken: My first step for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” is always to get the chicken ready. If you’re using chicken breasts, I find that pounding them to an even thickness (about ½ to ¾ inch) ensures they cook uniformly and remain incredibly tender. You can do this by placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding with a meat mallet or the flat side of a heavy pan. This also helps prevent them from drying out! If you’re using chicken thighs, you can skip the pounding, but ensure they are trimmed of any excess fat.
Season the Chicken: Once your chicken is prepped, pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear. In a small bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken, making sure to rub it in gently.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. As soon as the butter is melted and begins to foam slightly, carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot pan. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches. This allows for proper browning.
Cook to Golden Perfection: Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. Then, flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes on the other side, or until it’s cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This browning process is key to building deep flavor for our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.”
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board. It’s really important to let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist and succulent. While the chicken rests, you can start on the pasta and sauce!

Cooking the Pasta Perfectly for Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta

Boil the Water: Grab a large pot, the biggest one you have! Fill it with at least 4-6 quarts of water. I always add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. The salt is incredibly important because it seasons the pasta from within, making a huge difference in the final taste of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.” Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Cook the Pasta: Once the water is vigorously boiling, add the 1 lb of long pasta. Stir it gently right away to prevent it from sticking together. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” – it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, not mushy. This texture is perfect for holding up to our creamy sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: This is a secret weapon for any pasta dish, especially our “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta”! Before draining the pasta, ladle out about 1 to 1 ½ cups of the starchy pasta water into a heatproof mug or bowl. This starchy water is pure magic; it helps to emulsify the sauce, making it incredibly creamy and luscious, and can also be used to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Drain the Pasta: Once you’ve reserved your pasta water, carefully drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta under cold water! Rinsing removes the starches that help the sauce cling to the pasta. Just let it drain and set it aside, ready to be introduced to our glorious garlic Parmesan sauce.

Crafting the Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Sauce for Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta

Sauté the Garlic: Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in (don’t worry about those little brown bits, they’re called “fond” and they add amazing flavor!), melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add your finely minced 6-8 cloves of garlic. I truly believe that you can never have too much garlic in a “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” dish! Sauté the garlic gently for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter very quickly. We want sweet, aromatic garlic here.
Create a Roux (Optional, but Recommended for Thicker Sauce): If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, this is the time to add ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed garlic and butter. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute, creating a paste-like mixture called a roux. This will cook out the raw flour taste and begin to thicken our sauce beautifully. If you skip the flour, your sauce will still be delicious but slightly thinner.
Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth, adding it slowly to prevent lumps, especially if you added flour. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. If there was any fond from the chicken stuck to the bottom of the pan, scrape it up with a wooden spoon or spatula; this adds incredible depth of flavor to your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine. Allow the sauce to warm through, maintaining a gentle simmer but never allowing it to come to a rolling boil, as this can cause the cream to separate. We want a smooth, velvety texture.
Melt in the Parmesan: Remove the skillet from the heat. This is a crucial step when adding cheese to a cream sauce! Slowly add 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. Grating your own Parmesan is non-negotiable for this recipe; pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty or prevent it from melting smoothly. Stirring off the heat prevents the cheese from clumping or becoming oily.
Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season it with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. If you like a little kick, now is the time to add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning to your preference – remember, the Parmesan is salty, so taste before adding too much extra salt.
Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water: If the sauce seems too thick, or you just want that extra silky texture, gradually add some of the reserved ½ cup of pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until you reach your desired consistency. The starches in the pasta water will help create a wonderfully emulsified, glossy sauce that perfectly coats every strand of pasta in your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta.”

Combining and Finishing Our Delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta

Slice the Chicken: By now, your rested chicken should be cool enough to handle. Slice the chicken breasts or thighs into ½-inch thick strips or dice them into bite-sized pieces. Slicing against the grain will ensure the chicken is extra tender.
Add Pasta to Sauce: Transfer the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Using tongs, gently toss the pasta to ensure every strand is generously coated with the rich, creamy sauce.
Incorporate the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken to the pasta and sauce. Gently toss everything together one more time, allowing the chicken to warm through and soak up some of that incredible flavor. This step truly brings the “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” together as a cohesive dish.
Final Touches and Garnish: Taste one last time and adjust any seasonings if needed. Sometimes a little extra pepper or a tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice (my secret for brightness!) can really make it pop. Dish out generous servings of your “Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta” into bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and, of course, a generous extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You could even add a few more red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the culmination of what I truly believe will become one of your most cherished and frequently requested recipes. This isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that manages to be both incredibly comforting and remarkably sophisticated all at once. The deep, aromatic essence of garlic, perfectly mellowed and infused into a rich, creamy sauce, marries beautifully with the salty, nutty punch of Parmesan cheese. When this glorious concoction coats tender, juicy chicken pieces and perfectly al dente pasta, the result is nothing short of culinary magic. It’s a dish that warms the soul, satisfies the heartiest appetites, and leaves everyone at the table utterly delighted. I can confidently say that mastering this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta will elevate your home cooking to new heights, earning you rave reviews from family and friends alike. It’s the kind of meal that makes a busy weeknight feel like a special occasion, or turns a casual gathering into a memorable feast. Its relative simplicity belies the profound depth of flavor it offers, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned chefs and those just beginning their culinary adventures.

But the journey doesn’t have to end with the recipe as written. One of the many joys of cooking is the ability to customize and adapt, making each dish truly your own. For serving suggestions, I heartily recommend pairing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta with a crisp, refreshing green salad. A light vinaigrette dressing will provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the pasta, balancing the meal beautifully. And, of course, no creamy pasta dish is complete without something to sop up every last drop of that delectable sauce! A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread or a soft focaccia will be an absolute revelation. If you’re looking to elevate the experience further, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or a dry Rosé would complement the flavors wonderfully, enhancing the overall dining pleasure.

Now, let’s talk about variations, because this recipe is incredibly forgiving and open to your creative whims. For a vibrant splash of color and an extra nutritional boost, consider stirring in some steamed broccoli florets, fresh baby spinach, or even some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to wilt slightly into the creamy sauce. If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to swap out the penne for fettuccine, linguine, rotini, or even a short pasta like farfalle or orecchiette – just ensure it’s a shape that can hold onto that magnificent sauce! For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic will introduce a lovely, subtle kick that brightens the entire dish. And if you’re looking for an alternative protein, tender sautéed shrimp or even a vegetarian option with cannellini beans or chickpeas could also be fantastic in this creamy, garlicky sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs either; a sprinkle of fresh basil or finely chopped parsley at the end can add another layer of aromatic complexity.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and dive into making this incredible meal. I promise you, the aroma alone will be enough to get your taste buds tingling! I am truly excited for you to experience the sheer delight of creating and savoring this fantastic dish. Once you’ve whipped up your own batch of this glorious Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Pasta, please, please come back and share your experience with me! I absolutely adore hearing about your culinary adventures. Did you add any unique twists? What did your family think? Snap a photo, drop a comment below, or tag me on social media – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about how this recipe transformed your kitchen. Happy cooking, and enjoy every single mouthwatering bite!