There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen as you whip up a comforting dish of Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta. This dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with tender chicken, rich cream, and bold flavors in just about 30 minutes. It’s an easy way to impress family or friends with minimal effort.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe caters to those looking for a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and store leftovers for a quick reheating option later in the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s creamy and indulgent with a rich, velvety texture.
- The chicken cooks quickly, keeping dinner prep under 30 minutes.
- Simple ingredients come together for a satisfying meal.
- Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and flavor.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta:
For the Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Use whole garlic cloves for better flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano.
How to Make It
Here’s how to create this delicious dish in a few simple steps.
Cook pasta
Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
Sauté garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine pasta and chicken
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to combine.
Garnish and serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring halfway.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce thickness if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Enjoy a glass of white wine alongside your pasta dish.
