Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Mins
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a restaurant-style dinner you can make at home in just 30 minutes. Juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a silky garlic Parmesan sauce come together for the ultimate weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 oz pasta penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3–4 garlic cloves minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter version
- Supporting Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup spinach mushrooms, or broccoli
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Cook Chicken:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Slice or cube, then set aside.
- Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in cream and Parmesan. Whisk until smooth and thickened. Add a splash of pasta water if needed.
- Combine:
- Toss cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce until well coated.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Top with parsley, extra Parmesan, and chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water it helps loosen and smooth the sauce.
- Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a one-pan meal.
- For extra sauce, double the cream and Parmesan.
- Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.