Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta – Easy & Delicious One-Pan Recipe

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When it comes to rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dishes, few can compete with Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce in a way that makes it truly irresistible. If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that you can whip up at home in under 30 minutes, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this dish perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

  • Quick & Easy: This dish takes just 25 minutes from start to finish.
  • Rich & Creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese make the sauce velvety smooth.
  • Packed with Flavor: Garlic, shallots, and Italian seasoning elevate the dish.
  • Protein-Packed: Chicken breast makes it a hearty meal.
  • Customizable: Add vegetables, switch up the protein, or use different pasta types.

Ingredients Breakdown

To create the perfect creamy garlic chicken pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

  • 10.5 oz pasta – Choose any pasta you like, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps brown the chicken and enhances flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 lb chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 medium shallot – Finely diced to add mild sweetness.
  • 4 garlic cloves – Minced for bold garlic flavor.
  • ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs to add depth.
  • ⅓ cup chicken broth – Enhances the sauce’s savory taste.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – The base of the creamy sauce.
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, umami flavor.
  • Fresh parsley – For garnish and a fresh touch.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.

Step-By-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

  1. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  2. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

  1. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices.
  2. Add the drained pasta, tossing to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
  3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta!

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken – Cook just until golden brown to keep it tender.
  • Save some pasta water – If the sauce is too thick, a little pasta water can help loosen it.
  • Use heavy cream – For the creamiest consistency, avoid milk or light cream.
  • Experiment with add-ins – Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, penne, linguine, or even rigatoni work well in this dish.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

For a lighter version, use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as creamy.

3. How do I store leftovers?

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

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time, then reheat everything with the sauce when ready to serve.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Cook the sauce over low heat and avoid boiling the heavy cream to keep it smooth.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, special gathering, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With its rich garlic-infused sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try today and enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta dish!

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