Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

I absolutely love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe because it combines juicy, tender chicken with a creamy, garlicky sauce that hugs every piece of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and a little special, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends without too much fuss. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together so effortlessly, and now it’s a go-to in my kitchen.

You’ll find that this dish is not only delicious but also pretty simple to whip up, with straightforward ingredients you probably already have on hand. The best part? It’s versatile enough to adapt if you want to swap pasta types or add your own twist, so I’m confident you’ll enjoy making it just as much as eating it!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient works in harmony here—from the creamy parmesan to the punchy garlic and perfectly seasoned chicken. Grab fresh parmesan for better melting and flavor; it really makes a difference.

• Avocado or olive oil: Great for cooking chicken without overpowering the flavors.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or pounded thin for quick, even cooking.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the chicken a wonderful aromatic base.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the chicken seasoning.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the pasta sauce.
• Yellow onion: Finely diced and sautéed to sweeten and build the sauce’s flavor.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives that classic, punchy aroma we all crave.
• Dry penne pasta: Holds the sauce well, but you can swap with your favorite shape or gluten-free option.
• Chicken broth: The base liquid that infuses the pasta while cooking it.
• Finely grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated melts better and creates that creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: For richness and silky texture in the sauce.
• Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish.

Variations

I like to keep things classic but also enjoy mixing it up based on mood or what’s in the fridge. You should feel free to make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe your own and tweak it however you like—it always turns out great!

• Add Veggies: I’ve tossed in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition—my family loves when I sneak in some greens.
• Swap the Protein: Sometimes I use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist that still complements the creamy sauce.
• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and skip the butter to cut some calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Adding red pepper flakes into the sauce gives a nice, subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by mixing the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pat your chicken breasts dry—that’s a crucial step so the seasoning sticks well—and then rub that flavorful mix all over both sides. Heat your pan to medium, add the oil, and cook the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. You want it nicely browned and cooked through; an internal temperature of 165°F is your safest bet. Once done, set it aside to rest, which keeps those juices locked in.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and add a bit more oil plus butter—this combo gives you a silky base. Toss in your diced onions with a pinch of salt and cook until translucent, around 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and let it sauté for just a minute so it doesn’t burn but gets wonderfully fragrant. Then, deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all those tasty brown bits at the bottom.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Once your broth starts gently boiling, add the dry penne pasta, making sure it’s submerged. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until your pasta reaches a perfect al dente texture. It’s so satisfying cooking pasta directly in the broth because it soaks up all those savory flavors.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine Everything

Turn off the heat and stir in lots of freshly grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley—this is where the sauce really comes alive. Taste it and add more salt or pepper if needed. Finally, slice your rested chicken and gently stir it into the pasta. Everything coats in that luscious, cheesy sauce and you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with extra chopped parsley for color and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice sometimes to brighten all the creamy flavors. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice kick if you want a little heat. Grated parmesan on top never disappoints either—it’s all about layers of cheesy goodness here!

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus to add crunch and freshness. I’ve also served it with garlic bread on the side when I’m feeling indulgent; it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate this recipe with the chicken sliced neatly on top of a twirl of pasta, then garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant look. Serving it in individual cast-iron skillets can also make it feel restaurant-worthy and keeps it hot at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken, so before reheating, I add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up and keep everything creamy.

Freezing

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe freezes well if you want to prep it ahead of time. I freeze it without the cream, which I add fresh when reheating. Just thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm the pasta and chicken on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a little broth or cream to bring back the saucy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the sauce can separate or dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe holds a special place in my rotation because it’s both easy and absolutely satisfying. I love how the flavors come together so effortlessly, making me feel like I whipped up something impressive with minimal effort. If you’ve been searching for that perfect cozy dinner idea to make any night feel a little brighter, give this one a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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