Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – 30-Minute Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful, and indulgent weeknight dinner, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution. Combining tender chicken, twisted pasta, and a rich garlic-parmesan sauce, it’s a dish that feels gourmet yet comes together in just 30 minutes.

This recipe is ideal for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The garlic and Parmesan sauce is velvety and flavorful, clinging perfectly to each piece of pasta, while Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes add subtle depth and a hint of spice. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish is versatile, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Rich & Creamy: The garlic Parmesan sauce is indulgent yet simple to make.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Works with fusilli, penne, rotini, or any short pasta.
• One-Pan Sauce: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken & Pasta

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes – Tender, flavorful protein.
• 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini) – Catches the creamy sauce perfectly.

Sauce & Seasoning

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter – For cooking chicken and creating a flavorful base.
• 4–5 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and essential for flavor depth.
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream – Creates a velvety, luscious sauce.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – For deglazing the pan and thinning the sauce as needed.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into a rich, cheesy sauce.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided (half for chicken) – Adds herby depth.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a gentle kick.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Balances flavors.
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – Adds freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Tip: Toss the pasta with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking if not combining immediately.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 3 Tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Avoid burning, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (deglazing). Add heavy cream and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Seasoning

Lower heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot, optionally with extra Parmesan on top.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly; freshly grated yields the creamiest sauce.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cubes cook quickly; keep an eye to avoid dryness.
• Simmer Gently: Heavy cream can curdle if boiled; keep sauce on low heat.
• Customize Veggies: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Cook chicken and pasta in advance; reheat and combine with sauce when ready.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Perfect to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Light Side Salad: Arugula or mixed greens balance the richness.
• Family Dinner: Serve in large bowls for casual, comforting meals.
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers for reheating over the week.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approx. per serving)

Based on 4 servings

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 36 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes. Substitute chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta. Ensure Parmesan cheese and seasonings are gluten-free.

4. How can I make it extra creamy?

Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese for even richer texture.

5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. Cook pasta and chicken separately, then combine with the sauce when ready to serve. Reheat gently over low heat.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream-based pasta doesn’t always freeze well; it may separate. Best to enjoy fresh.

Print

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, twisted pasta, and a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

Quick, creamy, and satisfying, this pasta dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights at home, or meal prep. Garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, it’s a meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Velvety, cheesy, and full of garlic flavor—this 30-minute Chicken Pasta is a weeknight winner!