Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

I absolutely love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe because it brings together two of my favorite comfort foods into one ridiculously tasty dish. The creamy parmesan sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta just hits all the right notes, especially on evenings when you want something cozy but impressive enough to serve guests.

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised by how simple it was to pull off but how deeply satisfying every bite felt. You’ll find that the garlic and parmesan combo really elevates the chicken and pasta to another level, making it a go-to weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create the rich and savory flavors that make this garlic parmesan chicken and pasta recipe such a hit. When shopping, fresh garlic and good-quality parmesan will seriously make a difference, so don’t skimp there.

• Avocado oil or olive oil: Perfect for searing chicken with a nice high heat and neutral flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or pounded thin cooks evenly and stays juicy.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a mix of herbs that bring subtle depth and earthiness.
• Paprika: Just a touch gives color and a mild smoky note.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Melts smoothly for that rich sauce base.
• Yellow onion: Diced finely, it softens to add a natural sweetness.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh and minced—key for that signature garlic flavor punch.
• Dry penne pasta: Holds sauce well; feel free to swap for gluten-free or protein options.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory liquid to cook the pasta right in the pan, soaking up flavor.
• Finely grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better and delivers that nutty, salty richness.
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its creamy, luscious texture.
• Chopped parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herby finish.

Variations

I love tweaking this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe depending on what I have on hand or my mood. You can easily make it your own by swapping ingredients or adding a little twist—don’t be afraid to experiment!

• Vegetable Boost: I sometimes toss in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrients—my family doesn’t even notice, but they get a healthy kick.
• Spicy Kick: Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce gives it a subtle warmth that’s perfect if you like a little heat.
• Chicken Swap: For a change, using thighs gives it a juicier, more flavorful bite, especially if you prefer dark meat.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Using coconut cream or cashew cream and nutritional yeast in place of dairy works surprisingly well if you need to avoid dairy.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry—this helps get a nice sear. Mix Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, then rub it all over your chicken breasts. Heat a tablespoon of avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side until it’s golden and reaches 165°F inside. Then, remove it to rest and keep those juices locked in while you prep the pasta.

Step 2: Build Your Flavor Base

Turn the heat down to medium-low, then add a bit more avocado oil and your butter to the pan. Toss in diced yellow onion with a pinch of salt, cooking until it’s soft and translucent—about 3 minutes. Then add your minced garlic and stir it around for another minute. The smell here is simply amazing and a sign you’re on the right track!

Step 3: Make the Pasta and Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the pan—that’s pure flavor! Let the broth simmer lightly, then add your dry penne pasta, pushing it gently so it’s submerged in the broth. Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is just tender.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Add Chicken

Turn off the heat and stir in finely grated parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir everything until the parmesan melts and your sauce thickens slightly—this makes it creamy and dreamy. Slice your rested chicken and toss it right in with the pasta and sauce. Give it a good mix so every bite gets that perfect garlic parmesan goodness.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley and some freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh brightness. Sometimes a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or an extra sprinkle of parmesan amps up the indulgence.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for some crunch and color contrast. Garlic bread on the side is a no-brainer if you want to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this in a shallow, rustic pasta bowl stacked with chicken strips fanned out on top. Adding a small ramekin of extra parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes lets everyone customize their plate. It always feels restaurant-worthy but is totally doable at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers airtight in the fridge and try to eat them within 2 days. The creamy sauce thickens up, so I add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen it back up—this keeps that silky texture fresh.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish successfully, though pasta can get a bit softer after thawing. I recommend freezing without the cream added, then stirring it in fresh when you reheat for best texture and flavor. Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding extra cream or broth as needed to restore creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating if you can, as the sauce can split or the chicken dry out. Slowly stirring while reheating makes a big difference.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is honestly one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it’s so reliably delicious and comforting. I love how it’s easy to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. If you want a meal that feels a little special but doesn’t require a ton of fuss, you’ve got to give this a try. I’m confident once you do, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your house too.

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