Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil; 1 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup); 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free, or protein pasta); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 3 reviews

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of creamy pasta paired with tender, flavorful chicken. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe hits that cozy spot perfectly every time I make it. It’s a dish I turn to when I want something that feels a little special but is still straightforward enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

What really makes this recipe stand out is the rich garlic and parmesan combo mingling beautifully with the juicy chicken and pasta cooked right in the sauce. If you love dishes that blend creamy, cheesy goodness with a touch of fresh herbs and garlic, then you’re going to love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe just as much as I do.

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Why This Recipe Works

One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes and an easier cleanup for you.
Flavor-Packed: Garlic and parmesan create a rich, savory base that makes each bite unforgettable.
Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in about 35 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal when time is tight.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite pasta or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

A close-up image of a large metal pan filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken. The dish has two layers: the bottom layer is penne pasta coated in a light cream sauce with a smooth texture, pale yellow in color. On top of the pasta are many pieces of grilled chicken strips, browned and slightly charred with a golden-brown color and visible seasoning. The dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green parsley and grated white cheese, adding small flecks of green and white across the surface. The pan sits on a wooden surface, but the background has been changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Combining simple but quality ingredients is the key here. Each one adds its own special touch, whether it’s the creamy parmesan or the fresh garlic providing that aromatic punch. When you shop, look for fresh garlic and real parmesan cheese for the best result.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Butterflying or pounding it thin helps it cook evenly and stay juicy.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth to the chicken without overpowering it.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and a lovely hint of color.
Avocado or Olive Oil: Healthy fats that help get a nice sear on the chicken and soften the aromatics.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
Yellow Onion: Gives a mild sweetness when sautéed, balancing the garlic’s sharpness.
Garlic: The star aromatic bringing bold, fragrant flavor.
Dry Penne Pasta: Holds sauce well with its tubular shape, but you can choose your favorite pasta type.
Chicken Broth: The flavorful base of the cooking liquid that keeps the pasta moist and adds depth.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated melts perfectly for a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
Chopped Parsley: A fresh herb finish that brightens up the dish.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this recipe my own depending on what’s in the fridge or my mood. Feel free to swap out the herbs or add a bit of heat if you like things spicy – it’s your kitchen playground, after all!

Add Spice: I sometimes toss in red pepper flakes or fresh chili for a welcome kick.
Vegetable Boost: Adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes turns it into an even heartier meal.
Swap Pasta: Use gluten-free or protein-enriched pasta to fit dietary needs without losing flavor.
Cheese Upgrades: Try mixing parmesan with Romano or Asiago for a nuanced cheese flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

First things first, dry your chicken well and rub on the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a flavorful crust when seared. Heat a large pan over medium heat with some avocado oil, and cook the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes per side – you want that gorgeous golden-brown color. Check the internal temperature hits 165°F to be safe. When done, set the chicken aside to rest – this lock-in-juices trick keeps it tender while you work on the pasta.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium-low and add a little more oil plus butter to the pan. Toss in diced yellow onion with a pinch of salt – this draws out moisture and sweetness. After about 3 minutes when the onions look soft and translucent, add your minced garlic. Stir constantly for 1 more minute just until fragrant – Garlic burns quick, so watch closely here!

Step 3: Deglaze and Cook Pasta in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan – that’s pure flavor! Bring to a gentle boil, then stir in the dry penne pasta. Press it down with your spoon to submerge all the noodles in the broth, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is just tender (al dente). Remember to use the exact timing from your pasta package as a guide, but keep an eye so it doesn’t get mushy.

Step 4: Stir in Parmesan, Cream, and Herbs

Turn off the heat and add in freshly grated parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly – this is where the magic happens, turning your pasta wonderfully creamy and fragrant. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Slice and Combine Chicken with Pasta

Slice your rested chicken into strips and fold it into the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently so the chicken is warmed through without breaking apart. Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe and enjoy the compliments coming your way!

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Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Pound Chicken Thinly: This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy, avoiding dry spots.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts smoother and avoids clumping, giving a silky sauce texture.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Since it finishes in the sauce, take it off the heat when it’s just shy of your preferred texture.
Rest Chicken Before Slicing: Letting the chicken rest keeps it tender and juices locked in.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

A close-up of creamy pasta with grilled strips of chicken mixed throughout. The pasta is penne, covered in a light beige sauce with specks of green herbs and black pepper sprinkled on top. The chicken pieces are golden brown with grill marks, scattered evenly among the pasta. A black fork holds a small bite of pasta and chicken near the center. The dish is served in a shallow white bowl with a larger silver pan holding more pasta in the background, all placed on a wooden surface with a white cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to top this dish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice sometimes, which brightens the rich flavors beautifully. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes is also great if you want to add a little heat.

Side Dishes

Simple green sides like steamed broccoli, garlic roasted asparagus, or a crisp mixed greens salad pair brilliantly. I’ve also enjoyed it with warm crusty bread to scoop up any leftover sauce – trust me, no bite goes to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls with a fresh basil sprig on top, maybe some freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. It looks elegant but still feels homey and approachable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting a bit, though the pasta absorbs some sauce, so it’s sometimes thicker the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple times when meal prepping. Just cool it completely and pack it in freezer-safe containers. When thawed, it reheats best gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, I avoid the microwave for this one and prefer warming on medium-low heat on the stovetop. Stir frequently and add a bit of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While parmesan is the star here for its sharp, nutty flavor and melting qualities, you can experiment with Romano, Asiago, or even a bit of mozzarella for a stretchier texture. Just keep in mind that parmesan helps thicken the sauce nicely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking method and sauce stay the same, and it still turns out delicious.
What if I don’t have chicken broth on hand?

You can substitute vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but keep in mind that chicken broth adds a boost of savory flavor that enhances the overall dish.
How do I prevent the parmesan from clumping in the sauce?

The key is to use freshly grated parmesan with the smallest holes on your grater for a fine texture. Adding it off the heat and stirring gently until it melts helps avoid clumps.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s easy, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Every time I make it, I feel like I’m sharing a bit of warmth and love through food. I hope you’ll give it a try soon — whether for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner — and that it becomes a go-to recipe in your home, just like it is in mine.