There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with savory chicken, fragrant garlic, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner is the perfect weeknight meal, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to customize, making it a great option for any occasion. If you’re looking for other easy chicken recipes, check out Food Network’s guide to easy chicken recipes. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in, and I’ll show you how to make this delightful dinner. You might also enjoy these other quick and easy meals here.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken creates a symphony of flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts well to your preferences.

One-Pot Wonder: You can cook the chicken and pasta in the same pot, which means fewer dishes to wash. This makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious pasta dish:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: About 1.5 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite shape (penne, spaghetti, or rotini work well).
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for cooking.
Butter: 2 tablespoons for added richness.
Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced.
Chicken broth: 4 cups, for cooking the pasta and adding flavor.
Heavy cream: 1 cup, for a creamy sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, plus more for serving.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Dried Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon, optional, for extra flavor.
Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional).

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Making this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner is a breeze! You’ll start by sautéing the chicken, then adding garlic and broth to cook the pasta. The cream and Parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce. This easy process results in a restaurant-quality meal. For more inspiration, check out this guide on Allrecipes for chicken pasta dishes.

Looking for more? Try this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe next.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the garlic. Bring to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the pasta is cooked, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back to the pot with the pasta and sauce. Toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recommended Tools & Equipment for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. Here are a few items that will help you prepare this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner:

Large skillet or pot: For cooking the chicken and pasta.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife: For prepping the chicken and garlic.
Cheese grater: For grating fresh Parmesan cheese.

PRO TIPS for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to avoid a mushy texture. It should still have a slight bite to it.

If you enjoyed this, you might also love our Garlic Parmesan Hot Wing Dip Recipe recipe.

Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese.

Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more Parmesan cheese. For a thinner sauce, use less cream or add a splash of pasta water.

Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.

Add Veggies: Sauté some vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach with the chicken for added nutrients and flavor.

Variations & Serving Ideas

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Try adding different vegetables, herbs, or protein sources to create your own unique version. Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Add vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the chicken.
Use different herbs: Try adding fresh basil or oregano.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Add protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage.
Serve with: A side salad and garlic bread.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up in a skillet with a little bit of added cream or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy and delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner! It’s a fantastic recipe to have in your collection, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. If you loved this recipe, you might also be inspired by these other easy pasta dishes.

Don’t miss out on our guide to Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thyme Garlic Recipe.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, and rotini all work well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to cook this dish right before serving. However, you can prep the chicken and chop the garlic in advance to save time. Store the cooked chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the pasta.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or milk. The sauce will be thinner, but still delicious. You might want to add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the milk to help thicken the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sauté your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, along with the chicken for added flavor and nutrients. Add them to the pot after the chicken is cooked.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or use a slurry of cornstarch and water. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and add it to the sauce while stirring. Cook until the sauce thickens.

What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of crisp white wine would also be a nice complement.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dinner is the perfect and cozy meal prep win