Go Back

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with tender chicken and swirls of twirly pasta enveloped in a rich sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 large Boneless, skinless chicken breast Cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 lb Twisted pasta (fusilli) or penne/rotini
  • 3 Tbsp Unsalted butter Divided
  • 4-5 cloves Fresh garlic, minced
  • 1.5 cups Heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup Chicken broth
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated preferred
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Divided
  • 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional
  • Fine salt & black pepper To taste
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta until al dente per package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water; drain.
  2. Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp butter. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate (keep juices).
Cooking
  1. Lower heat to medium. Add remaining 2 Tbsp butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and remaining ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  3. Reduce heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.
  4. Return chicken (and juices) to the skillet. Add drained pasta. Toss until evenly coated. If sauce is thick, stir in splashes of reserved pasta water until glossy and clinging to the pasta.
  5. Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

This recipe serves about 4 people and can be paired with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish or toss in fresh spinach for added nutrition.