The aroma of garlic fills the air as you prepare a comforting meal. One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken and creamy pasta in just about 30 minutes. It’s a weeknight winner because it’s all made in one pan, minimizing both prep and cleanup.
This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a quick and delicious dinner. Whether you’re having friends over or want an effortless meal after a long day, this dish checks all the boxes. You can also store leftovers in the fridge for a quick lunch the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It uses just one pan, saving time on cooking and cleaning.
- The creamy sauce perfectly coats the pasta, creating a deliciously rich texture.
- Fresh garlic adds a fragrant depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- It’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious meal.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 680g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)
For the Pasta
- 8 oz (225g) penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (480ml)
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
For Serving (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (about 60g)
Use whole, fresh garlic for best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap chicken with turkey for a leaner option.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for less richness.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan alternative.
How to Make It
Start by cooking the chicken to achieve a golden brown crust.
Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown; remove from pan and let rest.
Sauté garlic
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the pasta
Add pasta and chicken broth; bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
Combine sauce ingredients
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Add chicken and spinach
Slice the rested chicken and return to the skillet along with spinach if using; toss gently to coat with sauce.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth if too thick.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side salad for a fresh complement.
- Serve with garlic bread for a hearty meal experience.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a special occasion.
