Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Easy Dinner Recipe Everyone Will Love

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. It’s one of the easiest and most delicious chicken pasta recipes you can make at home. With juicy chicken, rich garlic flavor, and smooth parmesan sauce, this pasta is loved by both kids and adults.

You only need basic ingredients and about 30 minutes to cook it. Whether it’s a busy night or a weekend meal, this recipe fits any time. It’s great for beginners, and you can even change it with baked or healthy options.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make garlic parmesan chicken pasta step by step, discover smart cooking tips, explore different variations, and find tasty sides to serve with it. Plus, we’ll answer common questions to help you cook it perfectly every time.

What Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

The basics of garlic parmesan chicken pasta

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy pasta dish that combines juicy chicken pieces, garlic, parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta. The sauce is made with butter, cream, garlic, and cheese, creating a smooth and rich texture. You can use many types of pasta like penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti. This dish is a great way to enjoy both protein and carbs in one bowl.

Many people love this dish because it is simple, comforting, and full of flavor. It is one of the top choices in chicken and pasta recipes today. You can make it in about 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for quick and tasty pasta dinner recipes.

Why this dish is loved in many homes

This pasta recipe has become popular for several reasons:

• It uses basic ingredients you often have at home
• It fits many diets (easy to make gluten-free or low-fat)
• Kids and adults both love the cheesy garlic taste
• You can change it by adding veggies, herbs, or spices

If you enjoy easy chicken pasta recipes, this one will quickly become a favorite. It also works great as a leftover, making it a smart choice for meal prep. Plus, it’s one of the most flexible chicken pasta dishes out there—you can make it your own!

Ingredients Needed for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Main ingredients and substitutions

To make delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you don’t need fancy items. Most of these ingredients are already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

These ingredients are simple and easy to find in any store. If you’re looking for simple chicken pasta recipes, this list makes shopping quick and easy.

Best chicken cuts and pasta types to use

When making this dish, the cut of chicken matters. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice because they cook quickly and stay juicy if done right. But if you like more flavor or tenderness, boneless thighs are great too.

For pasta, use what you have, but these types work best:

• Penne: Holds the sauce well
• Fettuccine: Gives a restaurant-style feel
• Rotini or Fusilli: Adds texture and traps the cheesy sauce
• Spaghetti: Classic and simple

Want to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta? No problem. This recipe works with all kinds. It’s one of the best chicken breast pasta recipes for experimenting with different types of noodles.

Step-by-Step Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

How to cook the chicken just right

Cooking the chicken well is key for tasty chicken in pasta recipes. Here’s how to make sure your chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time:

1. Cut the chicken into small strips or cubes. This helps it cook faster and more evenly.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning pieces to brown all sides. The inside should be white with no pink.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

This step is the base of many good chicken pasta recipes for dinner, and it can also be used in other easy chicken and pasta recipes.

Making the creamy garlic parmesan sauce

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to make the delicious, creamy garlic parmesan sauce—the heart of this dish.

1. In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic (about 3 cloves) and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir often so it doesn’t burn.
3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream slowly while stirring. Let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes to thicken.
4. Add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it with the sauce.

While your sauce is cooking, boil your pasta in salted water. Follow the box instructions—usually 8–10 minutes. Once it’s ready, drain and add it to the pan with the sauce and chicken.

Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the pasta can soak up the flavor.

This is the step where you get the full creamy flavor in every bite. It’s also where the magic happens for all your garlic parmesan chicken pasta dreams!

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

How to avoid dry chicken or sticky pasta

Even simple chicken pasta recipes can go wrong without a few smart tricks. Here’s how to make sure your dish comes out just right:

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook it until it’s no longer pink, but not dry. If you’re not sure, cut a piece in half to check. For juicy results, cook on medium heat and cover the pan for part of the time.
• Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let it sit for 2–3 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside.
• Add a bit of pasta water to the sauce: Before draining your pasta, save ¼ cup of the water. It has starch and helps the sauce stick to the noodles better.
• Mix the pasta with the sauce right away: Don’t let your pasta sit alone—it dries and sticks. Toss it with the sauce as soon as it’s drained.

These steps are key to making easy chicken pasta recipes that taste like they came from a restaurant.

Tips for getting a smooth, creamy sauce

The sauce is the star of any good garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Follow these tips to make sure yours is creamy and rich every time:

• Use freshly grated parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well and can make the sauce grainy.
• Don’t let the cream boil: Keep the heat low to medium. Boiling breaks the sauce and makes it thin or oily.
• Stir often: This helps the cheese melt smoothly and keeps the sauce from burning at the bottom.
• Use full-fat cream: For a thick, satisfying sauce, skip low-fat milk or substitutes.

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer without a lid.

These cooking tips make your dish better, no matter which pasta dinner ideas you’re trying.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake version

If you want a comforting and warm dish, turn your recipe into a garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake. It’s easy and adds a nice cheesy top that’s golden and crisp.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Follow the original recipe, but slightly undercook the pasta by 1–2 minutes.
2. Mix the pasta, chicken, and sauce together in a baking dish.
3. Top with extra grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

This version is perfect for parties or when you want to make something ahead of time. It’s one of the best easy chicken pasta dishes for feeding a crowd.

Healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta ideas

If you’re watching calories or want a lighter meal, don’t worry—garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthy versions still taste great!

Here are some simple swaps to make your dish better for you:

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for more fiber and fewer carbs.
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk with a little cornstarch.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for more nutrition and flavor.
• Grill or bake the chicken instead of frying it in butter.

You’ll still enjoy the cheesy garlic taste, but with a healthier twist. These are also great simple chicken and pasta recipes when you want something light but filling.

What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Best side dishes and salads

A good side dish can take your pasta dinner to the next level. Since garlic parmesan chicken pasta is rich and creamy, it pairs best with light and fresh sides. Here are some top choices:

• Green salad: A simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette cuts through the creamy sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Try broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. They add crunch and color to your plate.
• Roasted veggies: Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil make a healthy and tasty side.
• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad is another good match, especially if you love parmesan.

These sides not only taste great—they also help balance out heavy pasta recipes for dinner.

Bread, soups, and drinks to match this dish

If you want to go all out, complete your meal with bread, soup, or a simple drink that goes well with the creamy, cheesy pasta flavor.

Here are some easy and delicious ideas:

• Garlic bread: Crispy outside, soft inside. It soaks up the extra sauce!
• Dinner rolls: Soft rolls with butter are always a hit at the dinner table.
• Tomato soup: The tangy taste of tomatoes adds a fresh contrast.
• Minestrone soup: A hearty soup full of veggies that fills out the meal.
• Iced tea or lemonade: These drinks refresh your palate after rich food.

Adding these sides turns your dish into one of the best pasta meals for dinner you’ll ever serve.

Storing and Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

How to store leftovers and keep them fresh

If you have leftovers from your delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta, don’t let them go to waste. Proper storage keeps your food safe and tasty for another meal.

Here’s how to store it:

• Let the pasta cool before storing. Putting hot food in the fridge can cause moisture buildup and change the texture.
• Use an airtight container. This keeps the pasta from drying out or picking up other fridge smells.
• Refrigerate within 2 hours after cooking. This helps prevent bacteria from growing.
• You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Want to keep it longer? You can also freeze garlic parmesan chicken pasta:

• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label it with the date.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

This is a great option if you’re meal-prepping or doubling recipes for quick easy pasta dinners later.

How to reheat without losing flavor or texture

Reheating chicken pasta recipes can be tricky. You want the chicken to stay juicy and the pasta to stay creamy—not dry or gummy.

Follow these steps for the best results:

In the Microwave:

• Add a splash of milk or water to the pasta before reheating.
• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate.
• Heat on medium power for 60–90 seconds, stir, then heat another 30 seconds if needed.
• Stir well before eating.

On the Stove:

• Add the pasta to a skillet with a bit of cream, milk, or broth.
• Heat slowly on low to medium heat, stirring often until warm.
• This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from breaking.

Avoid reheating too fast or at high heat. That can dry out the chicken and make the sauce oily.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Overcooking chicken or undercooking pasta

One of the most common problems in chicken pasta recipes easy for beginners is not cooking the main parts correctly.

Problem: Dry or tough chicken

• Why it happens: Chicken is cooked too long or at too high heat.
• Fix it: Cut chicken into smaller, even-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Cook on medium heat and check often. Use a meat thermometer if needed (165°F is perfect).

Problem: Undercooked or overcooked pasta

• Why it happens: Pasta isn’t timed or stirred correctly.
• Fix it: Always read the pasta box for exact cooking time. Taste a piece near the end of the time to check. Stir the pasta a few times while boiling to keep it from sticking.

For best results in all easy pasta dinner ideas, set a timer and don’t walk away.

How to fix salty or bland sauce

The creamy sauce in garlic parmesan chicken pasta can easily go wrong if the balance of flavors is off. Here’s how to correct common problems:

Problem: Sauce too salty

• Why it happens: Too much cheese, salt, or salted pasta water.
• Fix it: Add a bit of cream, milk, or unsalted broth to balance the salt. You can also toss in a few pieces of cooked, unsalted pasta or veggies to absorb the extra salt.

Problem: Sauce is bland

• Why it happens: Not enough garlic, cheese, or seasoning.
• Fix it: Add a little more grated parmesan, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavor.

Sometimes, even good chicken and pasta recipes need small adjustments to match your personal taste.

Related Pasta Recipes and Chicken Pasta Ideas

Other easy chicken and pasta recipes to try

Once you’ve mastered garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you might want to try other delicious and simple recipes. Here are some favorites that are easy to make and full of flavor:

• Creamy Tuscan chicken pasta: Made with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and parmesan in a rich sauce. A favorite for date nights.
• Buffalo chicken pasta: Spicy, cheesy, and bold—perfect if you like a little heat with your pasta.
• Lemon garlic chicken pasta: Light and zesty. A great pick for warmer weather or a refreshing dinner.
• Chicken Alfredo pasta: A classic! Creamy and rich with a mild garlic flavor, loved by kids and adults.
• Chicken pesto pasta: Bright, fresh, and made with basil pesto, grilled chicken, and your favorite pasta noodles.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti to find your new favorite dish.

These are all perfect pasta dinner ideas that can be made with ingredients you already have at home. Great for busy weeknights!

Pasta dinner ideas your family will enjoy

Here are some more pasta recipes with chicken that your whole family can enjoy:

All of these are easy chicken and pasta meals you can mix and match throughout the week.

FAQ Section: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Questions

What is the difference between green salsa and salsa verde?

Green salsa and salsa verde are often the same thing. Both are made with green ingredients like tomatillos, green chili peppers, onions, garlic, and lime. The word “salsa verde” is Spanish and means “green sauce.” Sometimes, green salsa is made with different green veggies, so the taste may change. But in most recipes, they are used the same way.

If you’re adding salsa as a side or topping to your pasta or salad, either one works well!

What goes in green salsa?

Green salsa usually includes:

• Tomatillos (a small green tomato-like fruit)
• Green chili peppers (like jalapeños or serranos)
• Garlic and onions
• Lime juice and salt
• Fresh cilantro (optional)

These ingredients are blended together to make a fresh, tangy salsa. It’s perfect with Mexican food, grilled chicken, or even as a light topping on pasta for an extra kick!

Do I need to peel green tomatoes for salsa?

No, you don’t need to peel green tomatoes (or tomatillos) when making salsa. Just wash them well and remove the sticky skin on tomatillos if needed. You can boil, roast, or blend them raw—peeling is not required. Keeping the skin adds texture and flavor.

This tip is helpful if you’re preparing fresh sauces to enjoy with your chicken pasta recipe or salads.

How to make the perfect salsa verde?

To make tasty salsa verde at home:

1. Boil or roast 6 tomatillos until soft.
2. Blend them with 1–2 green chili peppers, 2 garlic cloves, ¼ onion, and some salt.
3. Add lime juice and fresh cilantro.
4. Blend again until smooth or chunky—your choice!

You can serve salsa verde on the side with your pasta, especially if you like a fresh, zesty flavor next to rich dishes like garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Easy Dinner Recipe Everyone Will Love

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• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and easy dinner recipe made with juicy chicken, fresh garlic, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is full of flavor and takes only 30 minutes to cook. It’s one of the best chicken pasta recipes for families who love comfort food with simple ingredients.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips or cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
• 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the chicken:
  Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, turning until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.

• Boil the pasta:
  Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and save ¼ cup of pasta water.

• Make the sauce:
  In the same pan, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in parmesan until melted.

• Combine:
  Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and chicken to the sauce. Stir well and cook for 1–2 more minutes.

• Serve:
  Top with extra parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!

Notes

• Use fresh parmesan cheese for best results.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Try baking it with cheese on top for a crispy pasta bake.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Pasta, Chicken Recipes
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 people
• Calories: 550–600 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g