Store in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth or olive oil before storing to help retain moisture.

If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and full of bold flavor, garlic parmesan chicken pasta might just be the perfect dinner for you. There’s something magical about tender chicken seared to golden perfection, coated in a creamy, cheesy garlic sauce, and tossed with penne pasta that soaks up every bit of that goodness. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro chef to make this from scratch.

This story begins on a cool Thursday evening in a bustling home kitchen. After a long workday and a couple of hungry kids circling the countertop, I needed a quick yet hearty dinner solution—one that wouldn’t skimp on flavor. The ingredients I had on hand were a chicken breast, several garlic cloves, penne pasta, and a block of Parmesan cheese.
With a splash of avocado oil, a whisper of Italian seasoning, and a heavy hand of garlic (because why not?), I created a dish that had everyone licking their forks clean.

From that night on, garlic parmesan chicken pasta became a regular favorite at our dinner table. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a memory on a plate. And today, I’m sharing this family-loved recipe that’s both beginner-friendly and indulgent, made from scratch with real ingredients you probably already have.

Don’t miss our crispy chicken fritta recipe—another chicken pasta favorite made with golden-fried perfection.

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What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

– Understanding the Basics of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

At its core, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a rich, creamy dish that blends seasoned chicken breast, sautéed onions, fresh garlic, and a smooth parmesan cream sauce over penne pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent, yet is incredibly simple to make at home. Think of it as the comfort food cousin of chicken alfredo—with even more garlic flavor and a parmesan punch.

Whether you use traditional penne, gluten-free pasta, or even a protein-enriched variety, the result is the same: a cozy bowl of pasta goodness that’s balanced with protein and bold with taste.

– Origins and Growing Popularity of Creamy Chicken Pasta Dishes

While creamy chicken pasta variations have been around for decades, garlic parmesan chicken pasta has carved its own space in American weeknight dinners. Thanks to food bloggers and TikTok cooking videos, the dish skyrocketed in popularity for one simple reason—it’s nearly impossible to mess up.

Unlike more complex cream sauces that require precise timing and constant whisking, this recipe uses smart ingredients like chicken broth and grated parmesan to build body and flavor naturally. It’s adaptable, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, garlic parmesan chicken pasta hits the mark every single time.

Looking for inspiration? Try our grilled chicken tenders as a protein-packed alternative or addition to this pasta dish.

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

– Core Ingredients: Garlic, Parmesan, Chicken, and Pasta

To bring this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe to life, you don’t need anything fancy—just a few pantry staples and a little love. Each ingredient plays a role in building that luxurious flavor and velvety texture:

Ingredient	Purpose
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast	The protein centerpiece—juicy and seasoned to perfection
1 tbsp Italian seasoning + ½ tsp paprika	Adds herby depth and a mild kick
Salt & pepper	For seasoning at every step
1 tbsp avocado or olive oil	Used for searing and sautéing, builds flavor
1 tbsp unsalted butter	Helps build a rich, golden base for the sauce
½ jumbo yellow onion (diced)	Brings mild sweetness to balance the sharpness of garlic
4–6 large garlic cloves (minced)	The hero of the dish—flavor-packed and aromatic
8 oz dry penne pasta	Penne is ideal for catching the creamy sauce inside its ridges
2 cups chicken broth	Adds depth and umami to the sauce, no need for extra bouillon
1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese	Melts into the sauce and brings savory, nutty richness
½ cup heavy cream	The secret to that indulgent, creamy finish
2 tbsp chopped parsley	For color, freshness, and flavor balance

Discover great ideas like our chicken liver nutrition guide if you’re exploring new protein sources with flavor impact.

– Optional Add-ons: Herbs, Vegetables, and Spice Variations

Although the basic recipe is delicious by itself, garlic parmesan chicken pasta can easily be customized to suit different tastes. You can add:

• Spinach or kale for color and nutrients
• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for texture and tang
• Swap penne for fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni

These additions let you tailor the recipe to your preferences—or simply use what you already have on hand.

Don’t miss our southern fried chicken livers if you enjoy bold, savory flavor profiles like this one.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

– Prepping the Chicken: Seasoning and Searing Techniques

Let’s start with the star of the dish—seasoned chicken breast. Butterfly the breast or gently pound it to about ½ inch thickness for even cooking.

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blot the chicken to remove excess moisture, then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides.
3. Heat a large skillet to medium. Add 1 tbsp avocado oil, then lay in the seasoned chicken.
4. Sear each side for about 3–5 minutes, until beautifully browned and the internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. Remove and let it rest—this keeps it juicy when you slice it later.

– Making the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce from Scratch

This is where the magic happens—right in the same pan you used for the chicken (because flavor lives in those golden brown bits).

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add another 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp unsalted butter.
2. Toss in the diced onion and a sprinkle of salt. Sauté until it becomes translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute—don’t let it burn!

Now, deglaze:

4. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up the flavorful bits on the pan bottom.
5. Add 8 oz penne pasta directly to the broth. Stir to coat and ensure it’s fully submerged.
6. Cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

To finish:

7. Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup parmesan, ½ cup heavy cream, and 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
8. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy, velvety, and luscious.
9. Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the pan. Toss everything together, and serve!

Cooking Variations You’ll Love

– One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Busy weeknight? Say less. One of the most loved variations of garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the one-pot method, and honestly, it doesn’t get easier than this.

With this approach, everything—yes, everything—cooks in a single large skillet or deep sauté pan. You start by searing the chicken, then remove it to sauté your onions and garlic, deglaze with broth, and cook the pasta directly in that flavorful base. The starch from the pasta naturally thickens the sauce, helping it cling to every bite.

Benefits of one-pot cooking:

• Less cleanup: You only need one pan
• Enhanced flavor: The chicken juices and garlic blend beautifully into the broth
• Faster process: From stove to table in about 30 minutes

It’s perfect for those nights when you want a restaurant-worthy creamy pasta dinner without hovering over the stove.

– Crockpot and Slow Cooker Adaptations for Busy Nights

Want dinner ready when you walk in the door? Enter: the slow cooker.

Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is just as rich and flavorful—and might even be creamier. Here’s how to adapt it:

1. Season chicken as usual and sear it briefly for flavor (optional, but recommended).
2. Place the chicken in your crockpot with garlic, diced onion, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender and shreds easily.
4. In the last 30 minutes, stir in dry penne pasta, heavy cream, and parmesan.
5. Finish with chopped parsley and return the shredded chicken to the mix.

This version is ultra-forgiving and great for meal prepping.

Tips for Making It Extra Creamy (Without Cream)

– Using Parmesan, Milk, and Pasta Water to Thicken Sauce

Contrary to what many believe, you don’t need heavy cream to create a luscious, velvety pasta sauce. Here’s how you can make garlic parmesan chicken pasta creamy without cream:

• Parmesan cheese naturally melts into a thick, glossy sauce—especially when it’s freshly grated.
• Pasta water (starchy from cooking penne) is a goldmine. Stirring in ½ cup can help emulsify and thicken the sauce.
• For a lighter alternative, whole milk or evaporated milk can be used instead of heavy cream, resulting in only a minor difference in texture.

Pro tip: Add cheese slowly and off the heat to prevent clumping and keep the sauce silky smooth.

– How to Substitute Heavy Cream for Lighter or Dairy-Free Options

If you’re watching calories or dairy intake, there are great substitutions that still deliver creamy results:

Substitute	Notes
Evaporated milk	Lower fat than cream, still rich
Half-and-half	Lightens the fat content with great taste
Plain Greek yogurt	Adds creaminess and protein—just temper it to avoid curdling
Coconut cream	Works great for a dairy-free twist (may slightly alter flavor)
Cashew cream	Blends smoothly and mimics real cream texture

To use any of these, stir them in at the end of cooking—never boil them or they may split.

Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Healthy?

– Nutritional Breakdown of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Let’s be honest: garlic parmesan chicken pasta feels indulgent—and it absolutely delivers on richness—but that doesn’t mean it can’t fit into a balanced diet. Here’s a closer look at what you’re working with nutritionally, based on a standard serving (about 1 ½ cups):

Nutrient	Estimate
Calories	520–600 kcal
Protein	35–40g
Carbs	35–45g
Fat	25–30g
Fiber	2–4g (more with whole grain pasta or veggies)

What makes this dish more balanced than other creamy pastas is its high protein content, thanks to the lean chicken breast. The garlic and parsley also add natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

To keep things healthy:

• Use whole-wheat or high-protein pasta
• Cut back on cream and use more broth + parmesan
• Add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms
• Try pan-searing in olive oil instead of butter

Check out our banana recipe for weight loss if you’re looking to balance hearty meals with light, healthy snacks.

– Smart Substitutions for a Healthier Version

If you’re looking to lighten up garlic parmesan chicken pasta without losing the creamy appeal, here are a few easy swaps:

Swap This	For This
Heavy cream	Plain Greek yogurt or light cream
Butter	Olive oil or avocado oil
Penne pasta	Lentil, chickpea, or protein pasta
Parmesan	Nutritional yeast (for dairy-free option)
Chicken breast	Skinless thighs (if you prefer juicier cuts)

These substitutions reduce calories, increase fiber or protein, and still keep that comforting taste intact.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A Quick Weeknight Dinner Recipe

– 20-Minute Dinner Version for Busy Families

Don’t have a full hour to prep dinner? Good news—garlic parmesan chicken pasta can be ready in under 25 minutes with a few shortcuts.

Here’s the express version:

1. Use pre-cooked grilled chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken
2. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil for 2 minutes
3. Add pasta, chicken broth, and cover to cook
4. Mix in the Parmesan and cream, then add the chicken and combine everything thoroughly.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve

This is perfect for after-work dinner rushes, when everyone’s hangry and you don’t want takeout. You’ll still enjoy the bold garlic taste and smooth sauce, but with a quicker preparation time.

Discover great ideas like our easy heart-shaped cake to pair with this pasta for a cozy weeknight meal or date night at home.

– Prepping Ahead and Using Leftovers Creatively

Want to save time later in the week? You can prep the entire dish ahead, or at least the components:

• Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge (3–4 days)
• Mince the garlic and dice onion in advance
• Pre-shred the parmesan for a faster assembly
• Store cooked pasta separately and toss it with sauce when reheating

Got leftovers? Use them creatively:

• Add into a cheesy baked pasta casserole
• Mix in fresh spinach and chill before serving as a refreshing pasta salad.
• Layer into a wrap or sandwich with mozzarella

This pasta is versatile enough to shine in day-two meals.

Storing & Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

– Best Practices to Keep Leftovers Creamy and Fresh

Leftover garlic parmesan chicken pasta holds up surprisingly well when stored properly. But without care, the creamy texture can quickly turn sticky or dry. Here’s how to keep it just as comforting the next day:

Storing tips:

• Keep it fresh by storing in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Let the pasta cool completely before sealing—this prevents soggy condensation
• Drizzle a little olive oil or broth before refrigerating to lock in moisture

You can also portion it out into single servings for grab-and-go lunches.

– Can You Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Yes—but with a few caveats.

Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well. The texture may change slightly, becoming grainy or separating when reheated. However, you can freeze the pasta and chicken mixture if you plan to add a bit of fresh cream and cheese when reheating.

To freeze:

• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags
• Label with date and portion sizes
• Store for up to 2 months

To reheat:

• Thaw in the fridge overnight
• Heat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth or milk to loosen the texture
• Stir frequently and add parmesan as needed to revive creaminess

Don’t miss our salmon cake recipe—another great freezer-friendly dinner you can prep ahead for busy nights.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Conclusion: A Comfort Classic You’ll Make Again and Again

Creamy, garlicky, cheesy, and absolutely soul-warming—garlic parmesan chicken pasta is more than just a dinner idea. It’s a go-to comfort dish you can whip up on a weeknight, impress guests with on the weekend, or freeze for later.

With its rich flavor and adaptable recipe, this pasta proves that homemade meals can feel luxurious without being complicated. Whether you’re cooking it in one pot or letting it simmer in the crockpot, the result is the same: a restaurant-worthy dish that brings the family running to the table.

Looking for inspiration? Try our best Japanese mounjaro recipe for a totally different flavor experience that’s just as memorable.