Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet Pasta

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped

Method

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute.
5. Add cream, broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
7. Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

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🔄 Variations

Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or sliced sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor. Make It Lighter:

Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to reduce richness.

Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for added texture and nutrition.

Use a Different Pasta: Try fettuccine, rotini, or bowtie pasta instead of penne.

Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.

Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or add more Parmesan for a richer, cheesier sauce.

Garlic Lovers Version: Increase garlic to 5–6 cloves for a stronger garlic flavor.

Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or a low-carb pasta alternative.

Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or thyme for a brighter, more aromatic finish.

Oven-Baked Finish: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a golden crust.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta warm with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Garlic bread or toasted baguette pairs perfectly for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce.

For a fresh touch, garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

🧊 Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy texture.

💡 Tips

Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling.
Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks evenly and stays tender.
Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

❓ FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well—just add it at the end to warm through.

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat with a little added liquid to refresh the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little butter can be used for a lighter version.

Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer a bit longer or add a little extra Parmesan cheese.