Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. They stay tender and offer a richer flavor compared to chicken breast.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Use low heat when adding cream and Parmesan cheese. High heat can cause dairy to separate, so whisk gently for a smooth garlic sauce.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Penne and rotini hold creamy garlic sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work. Choose a pasta that catches and clings to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes. You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little flour for a lighter but still creamy pasta.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

Dairy-based sauces don't freeze well, so Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best stored in the fridge and eaten within a few days.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy Tonight

Description

A rich, creamy pasta dish made with tender seared chicken, fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a silky sauce that delivers comforting flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
12 ounces pasta
3 tablespoons butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Optional: 1 cup fresh spinach
Optional: 1 cup broccoli florets
Optional: 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper

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Instructions

Season chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Sear chicken in a hot skillet until golden and set aside.
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; reserve pasta water.
Melt butter in the skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add broth, then whisk in cream; simmer gently.
Slowly mix in Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
Return chicken to the pan and stir in cooked pasta.
Adjust consistency with pasta water and finish with parsley.

Notes

Add Parmesan gradually to prevent clumping.
Keep heat low when adding cream to avoid separating.
Loosen sauce with pasta water if it thickens too much.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 720
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 690 mg
Fat: 38 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 56 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 42 g
Cholesterol: 145 mg