This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of savory, rich flavors and comforting textures. Think golden seared chicken breast slices served atop a bed of al dente penne pasta, all smothered in a velvety parmesan and garlic cream sauce. It’s an easy dinner option that tastes like something you’d order from a fancy Italian restaurant—but made in the comfort of your own kitchen.

This dish is beloved for how effortlessly it combines simplicity with bold flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or hosting friends for a cozy dinner party, this pasta recipe promises to satisfy every bite. With pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s a dinner you can whip up without the fuss but still feel fancy serving.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into the creamy goodness of this pasta, a bit of prep work makes all the difference. Start by gathering the following essential tools:

Large skillet or sauté pan: Crucial for getting that golden sear on your chicken and for later simmering your garlic cream sauce. The wider surface area allows for even cooking.
Medium or large pot: For boiling the pasta. Choose a pot that gives your pasta enough space to cook evenly.
Sharp chef’s knife: Slicing the chicken breasts evenly ensures uniform cooking and keeps the dish balanced.

Tongs or a spatula: To flip and handle the chicken safely while searing.
Whisk: Helps blend the sauce into a silky-smooth consistency without lumps.
Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently after boiling.

Having everything within reach makes the cooking process seamless, so you can focus on layering the flavors instead of searching for tools.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish brings something essential to the flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish. When seared, they add a golden, juicy bite that complements the creamy sauce.

Penne pasta: Its ridged texture holds the sauce perfectly, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Fresh garlic cloves: The soul of the dish. Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a rich, aromatic depth.
Heavy cream: Provides the luscious, velvety base for the parmesan sauce.

Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness, creaminess, and that signature nutty flavor.
Butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce and helps sauté the garlic without burning it.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.

Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce, ensuring everything is well-balanced.
Italian seasoning: Gives a touch of herby brightness to the cream sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk gently to combine. Once it starts to simmer, add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until well coated. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top. Sprinkle extra Parmesan and cracked pepper to finish.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy. Plate it in a shallow bowl, topping each serving with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color and aroma.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s texture. Reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. For dairy-free options, try unsweetened coconut cream or cashew cream.

What other pasta shapes work well?

Fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni are great alternatives. Just make sure it’s a shape that holds sauce well.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make excellent additions. Add them in during the sauce-making stage so they cook gently.

Is it possible to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken leftovers. Just add them into the sauce before combining with pasta to warm through.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Creamy Twist?

If this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hit the spot, you’ll love these other satisfying recipes:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a veggie-packed take.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese if you’re craving cheesy comfort.

Sweet & Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a bold kick of flavor.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for more rotini goodness.
Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff when you want something rich and earthy.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist—maybe some crispy bacon bits or a hint of chili? Or did you keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Don’t hesitate to ask questions—we’re all here to cook, learn, and enjoy great food together!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings together juicy, golden-seared chicken and penne pasta in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and elegant enough for entertaining—your new go-to dinner for any night of the week.

Instructions

1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Remove and let rest.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

5. Pour in heavy cream and whisk gently to combine. Once simmering, add grated Parmesan and whisk until smooth and creamy.

6. Add cooked pasta into the sauce and toss until well coated.

7. Slice rested chicken and place on top of the pasta. Garnish with additional Parmesan and cracked pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

Resting the chicken before slicing keeps it juicy and allows the juices to redistribute.

Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a handful of shredded mozzarella.