Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Quick Family Dinner
Are you looking for a quick and satisfying dinner idea that’s packed with flavor? This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta combines tender chicken, a rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Why this recipe is a standout choice
- The garlic-infused sauce offers a bold and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the Parmesan.
- Using bite-sized chicken ensures every forkful has a protein-packed punch.
- The creamy texture of the sauce coats the pasta evenly, creating a luxurious dining experience.
Ingredients you’ll need
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to make this pasta dish
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are browned and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute penne or fettuccine with other pasta shapes like rotini or spaghetti for a slightly different texture.
Why didn’t my sauce turn out creamy? Ensure your Parmesan cheese is freshly grated and stir it continuously to prevent clumping or a grainy texture.
Storage and leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Ingredient substitutions
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less rich. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini slices.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a Quick Family Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Loved this recipe? Save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it later! ✨
