If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food—with all the creamy, garlicky goodness you adore—Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine juicy pieces of perfectly seasoned chicken nestled in a rich, silky sauce, eagerly wrapping itself around every strand of al dente pasta. This dish brings together everything we love: simplicity, bold flavor, and that “just one more bite” appeal. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this is the kind of dinner that makes an ordinary night feel special.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in building the flavor and luscious texture of Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. Every element, from the chicken to the cheese, has its delicious purpose—you’ll find it’s a harmony you don’t want to miss.

Pasta: Fettuccine or penne are both excellent choices, holding onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil: Just a touch helps achieve that gorgeous golden sear on the chicken.
Chicken Breast: Slicing the chicken thin ensures it cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors.
Italian Seasoning: Adds essential herby notes, making everything taste a little more “restaurant-quality.”
Salt & Pepper: Don’t underestimate these pantry staples—they bring out all the best in your chicken.
Garlic: Four generous cloves infuse the dish with warmth and irresistible aroma.
Unsalted Butter: Melts into the pan to create the signature creamy base for the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Deepens the savory backbone of the sauce, tying everything together.
Heavy Cream: The backbone of that dreamy, velvety texture you crave in Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh is best for melting wholly into the sauce and lending nutty, salty undertones.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that perks up each bite without overpowering the creaminess.
Chopped Parsley: A final sprinkle brings freshness and a beautiful pop of color to the finished dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by setting a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook your fettuccine or penne according to the package instructions until just al dente—it should have enough bite to stand up to the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later on.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss the sliced chicken breast with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper right on your cutting board or in a bowl. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the chicken in the hot pan and let it sizzle undisturbed for a couple of minutes to get that gorgeous golden edge, then flip and cook until just cooked through (about 5–6 minutes total). Remove the chicken to a plate and keep it warm—you’ll be bringing it back soon.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the minced garlic and let it sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Now, it’s time for the heavy cream and Parmesan: whisk them in until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened. If you love a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now.

Step 4: Finish the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Slide your cooked chicken—and all those tasty juices—back into the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together so every bite is generously coated in the velvety sauce. If things seem a bit too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water. Let the dish warm through for another minute or two, letting the noodles soak up just the right amount of creamy flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

For that final flourish, sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top of your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. Not only does it add a fresh, herbal note to each forkful, but it also makes the whole dish look restaurant-ready. A light extra dusting of grated Parmesan never hurts, either!

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and deeply satisfying on its own, but it also shines alongside something bright and crisp like a simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette. A warm slice of garlic bread or a plate of steamed broccoli are also lovely companions, balancing out the meal and offering a bit of extra texture.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests (or just treat yourself to a special night in!), twirl the pasta into deep bowls and pile the juicy chicken on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and even a pinch more Parmesan cheese. For a beautiful family-style presentation, serve everything in a big, wide platter, garnished with colorful microgreens or baby spinach for added vibrance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will meld, and the sauce may even thicken a little—making tomorrow’s lunch extra delicious.

Freezing

This creamy pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Portion into freezer-safe containers, pressing a layer of plastic wrap directly over the surface to help prevent ice crystals. Freeze for up to one month with the knowledge that the sauce may separate a bit upon thawing.

Reheating

For the creamiest results, reheat your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir often to keep everything silky and prevent sticking. Microwave reheating works, but keep the power setting low and stop to stir every minute or so.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne are classics for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, you can try linguine, rigatoni, or even your favorite gluten-free pasta to suit your taste or dietary needs.

How can I make this dish lighter?

If you’d prefer a lighter touch, substitute half-and-half or a light cream for the heavy cream. You can also add loads of fresh spinach or toss in some steamed broccoli for more veggies without sacrificing flavor.

Do I have to use chicken breast?

Nope! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are equally tasty in this recipe and often juicier. You can even use pre-cooked or leftover rotisserie chicken for an ultra-quick version of Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based cream alternative and swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. The results will still be creamy and delicious!

What proteins can I substitute for chicken?

Beyond chicken, this dreamy garlic cream sauce pairs wonderfully with shrimp, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a soul-warming meal that comes together effortlessly, Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta delivers every time. It’s rich, easy, and packed with crowd-pleasing flavor—so don’t hesitate to give it a try. You’re just a few steps away from a dish that’s bound to be requested again and again at your table!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this creamy garlic chicken pasta dish that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Chicken:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until golden. Set aside.
Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic in butter. Add chicken broth, simmer, then add cream and Parmesan. Cook until thickened.
Combine: Add chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.