There are some nights when you just need a dinner that brings everyone to the table without a lot of fuss—and this garlic parmesan chicken pasta does exactly that. It’s warm, creamy, and full of flavor, and the best part? It all comes together in one pot. That means less cleanup and more family time.
I love recipes like this because they’re dependable—the kind you can make with ingredients you already have in your kitchen, but still feel proud to serve. Whether you’re hosting a friend for dinner or just making something comforting after a long day, this one never lets you down.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything—from the simple ingredients to step-by-step instructions, plus tips, variations, and how to store leftovers for later. Let’s get that pot on the stove and start cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Let me tell you—This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. It’s cozy, full of flavor, and easy enough for a busy night—no special ingredients or long prep needed. Just simple steps, familiar flavors, and a dish everyone will love.
Here’s why this one’s going to be a repeat in your kitchen:
Family-friendly flavors: Creamy parmesan, savory garlic, and tender chicken? It’s a combo that makes everyone at the table happy—kids included.
Quick and easy to make: Whether you’re cooking it all in one pot or tossing everything into a slow cooker, this recipe keeps things stress-free.
Perfect for any occasion: It’s casual enough for a busy Tuesday but cozy and satisfying enough to serve to company.
Flexible and customizable: Want to stir in some peas or spinach? Go for it. Prefer rotini over penne? Totally fine. This is one of those chicken in pasta recipes that adapts to what you’ve got.
Leftovers reheat beautifully: Make a little extra and enjoy it again the next day—just as creamy and flavorful as the first time.
One-pot cleanup: Less time scrubbing, more time relaxing. Everything cooks together, and that’s always a win in my book.
Whether you’re after simple chicken pasta recipes that come together fast, or a comforting favorite that still feels special, this one’s got your back. Now that you know why it’s a keeper, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make it!
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta keeps things simple, but every ingredient pulls its weight. We’re talking pantry staples and a few fridge regulars that, when combined, give you creamy, flavorful comfort in one skillet. You don’t need anything fancy—just what you probably already have on hand.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized chunks so they cook quickly and evenly.
- 1 teaspoon salt + 1 teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning the chicken and layering flavor throughout the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden-brown perfection.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps carry that savory garlic flavor through the sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – The hero of the dish. Fresh garlic gives the pasta its bold, warm aroma.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth – This doubles as both flavor booster and cooking liquid for the pasta.
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta (dry) – These sturdy shapes hold onto the creamy sauce like champs.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Gives the sauce its silky texture without feeling too thick or heavy.
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce and adds that signature nutty, cheesy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A balanced mix of herbs that adds a cozy, savory base note.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Just a pinch adds gentle warmth without overpowering the rest.
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach – Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas – Stir in for a touch of sweetness and a little extra green.
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – Adds tang and a hint of chewiness that plays well with the creamy sauce.
Pro Tip: Want to give it a little twist? For a Mediterranean flair, try adding kalamata olives and oregano. Or go with a Tex-Mex angle by swapping Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and mixing in roasted corn. The base is super flexible—it’s easy to make it your own.
Up next: let’s break down exactly how to bring this dish to life, step by step.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Step by Step
This isn’t one of those recipes where you’re juggling five pans and crossing your fingers—it’s straightforward, rewarding, and smells incredible as it comes together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started with chicken pasta recipes, these steps are clear, doable, and designed to make you feel confident at the stove.
Step-by-step Instructions:
1. Brown the chicken.
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Lightly season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot pan. Let them cook for 5 to 6 minutes, giving them a gentle stir now and then, until they develop a golden color and lose that raw look on the surface. Once done, scoop them into a bowl—they’ll continue cooking later when we bring the sauce together.
2. Build the flavor.
In that same skillet, drop in the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds, just until it starts to smell rich and savory—but don’t let it brown.
3. Add liquid and pasta.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty browned bits. Bring it up to a low boil, then stir in the dry pasta, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Simmer with the chicken.
Return the browned chicken and any juices back into the pot. Stir well, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let everything cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. The broth should reduce and thicken slightly as the pasta softens.
5. Stir in cream and cheese.
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Add the Parmesan a little at a time, stirring after each addition so it melts smoothly into the sauce. The mixture should turn creamy and velvety with a glossy finish.
6. Finish with greens.
Turn the heat to low and gently fold in the spinach. It’ll wilt in about a minute, adding color and a fresh bite. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve and enjoy.
Spoon the pasta into bowls while it’s warm and creamy. Top with extra Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, or a sprinkle of parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
If the sauce thickens too much while you’re finishing the dish, just add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up. Give it a stir and it’ll go right back to creamy perfection.
There’s something special about serving up a dish that fills the kitchen with that savory garlic-parmesan aroma. Now that you’ve got the cooking part down, let’s talk about some little tricks to personalize it even more.
Easy Chef Tips and Variations for Chicken and Pasta Recipes
Once you’ve made this garlic parmesan chicken pasta once, it’s hard not to start thinking of all the fun ways to change it up. That’s one of the reasons it’s a go-to around here—it’s dependable, but never boring. Whether you want to make it ahead, switch up the flavors, or avoid a few common hiccups, these tips will help you feel even more confident in the kitchen.
Helpful Tips:
- Don’t rush the browning. Let the chicken sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes in the hot oil. That golden crust adds a ton of flavor to the final dish.
- Use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded Parmesan doesn’t melt the same way and can make the sauce a little gritty. Freshly grated blends in smooth and creamy.
- Add cream last. Letting the broth and pasta cook first prevents the cream from getting too thick or clumpy as it simmers.
Easy Variations:
- Slow Cooker Style: For a hands-off version, toss everything but the Parmesan, spinach, and cream into your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese 15 minutes before serving, and fold in the spinach right at the end.
- Make it a garlic parmesan chicken pasta bake: Pour the finished pasta into a baking dish, top with extra cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, then broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
- Try different pasta shapes: Rotini, shells, or bowties all work great. Just use a shape that holds sauce well.
- Use cooked shredded chicken: Got leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken from another night? Toss it in toward the end and skip the browning step to save time.
- Add seasonal veggies: Roasted mushrooms in the fall, zucchini in the summer—this recipe easily welcomes fresh, colorful additions.
The beauty of this dish is how flexible it is. Once you know the base, you can make it your own any way you like. Speaking of making it your own—let’s look at fun ways to serve it next!
Serving Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
One of my favorite things about garlic parmesan chicken pasta is how well it fits into just about any dinner plan. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a comforting Sunday dinner, it feels special without the fuss. And with a few simple sides or presentation ideas, you can turn it into a full meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Here are a few easy and creative ways to serve it:
- With garlic bread or crusty rolls: Because every creamy pasta deserves a little bread on the side for soaking up that sauce.
- Next to a crisp green salad: Toss together some lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette—it balances the richness beautifully.
- As a pasta bowl night: Let everyone add their own toppings—extra cheese, cracked pepper, or a sprinkle of parsley—and serve in cozy bowls.
- With roasted vegetables: Try broccoli, carrots, or asparagus on the side to round out the meal with extra color and texture.
- For potlucks or gatherings: Keep it warm in a slow cooker and bring extra cheese for topping—it stays creamy and comforting for hours.
Whether you’re plating it up for a family dinner or dishing out seconds at a get-together, this chicken and pasta recipe delivers every time.
Coming up next: how to store those tasty leftovers so they stay just as good the next day.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and Reheat It Later
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you’re in for an easy and delicious next-day meal. The sauce holds up beautifully, and with just a little extra care, it tastes just as comforting when reheated.
Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- To refrigerate:
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. - To freeze:
Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers or bags (press out the air if using bags). Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Lay bags flat to save space! - To reheat on the stovetop:
Add a splash of broth or milk to a saucepan with the pasta. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s creamy and heated through. - To reheat in the microwave:
Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in a little broth or milk, cover loosely, and heat in 45-second bursts, stirring in between, until warm. - Avoid overheating:
Overheating can make the sauce overly thick or grainy. Warm it gently and stir often to keep that velvety texture.
Having leftovers that reheat so well is a small joy on busy days. And trust me—this dish disappears fast, so you might want to stash a bowl before the rest is gone!
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 oz dry pasta penne or rotini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas
- ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sauté in olive oil until golden, about 5–6 minutes. Set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same pan, melt butter and cook garlic for 30 seconds, stirring often.
- Add Broth & Pasta: Pour in broth. Stir in pasta, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine Chicken: Add chicken back to the pan. Simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream & Cheese: Stir in cream and Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
- Finish with Spinach: Fold in spinach until just wilted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with more Parmesan if desired.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Got questions about making garlic parmesan chicken pasta at home? You’re not alone—whether it’s your first time trying one of these creamy chicken pasta recipes or you’re just looking to get the most out of your ingrédients, here are the answers to the things folks ask most often. I’ve got you covered, just like I would if we were chatting across the kitchen counter.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw?
Absolutely! If you’ve got leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken, this is a great way to use it. Just skip the browning step and stir the shredded chicken in when you add the pasta and broth. It’ll warm through as everything simmers together.
What pasta shape works best for garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or bowties work beautifully—they hold onto the creamy sauce and cook evenly in the pot. Just aim for something sturdy that won’t turn mushy as it simmers.
Can I make this a slow cooker chicken parmesan pasta?
Yes! Just add the uncooked pasta, diced chicken, broth, seasoning, and garlic to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream, Parmesan, and spinach during the last 15–20 minutes until everything’s warm and creamy.
What if the sauce turns out thicker than I want?
If the pasta soaks up more liquid than expected, just add a little extra broth or a splash of cream at the end to loosen it. Stir it in gently, and your sauce will go back to smooth and creamy in no time.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Freshly grated Parmesan is the way to go. It melts into the sauce easily and gives you that rich, nutty flavor that really defines this dish. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t always melt as smoothly, so if you can, grate your own.
Can I double this for a crowd?
You sure can! Just use a large Dutch oven or stockpot to make sure there’s enough room for the extra pasta and sauce. Keep an eye on the liquid—add a bit more broth as needed so the pasta stays nicely coated.
These little tips and tweaks make all the difference when it comes to pulling off a cozy, foolproof pasta night.
Conclusion
There’s just something special about a dish like garlic parmesan chicken pasta—it brings everyone to the table with smiles and full plates. It’s cozy without being fussy, and flexible enough to work whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or sharing a warm meal with guests. The creamy garlic sauce, the tender chicken, the pasta that soaks up every bit—it all comes together like a little kitchen win.
I hope this recipe finds a spot in your regular rotation, just like it has in mine. And if you give it a try, I’d love to know how it turned out for you—especially if you added your own twist.