Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender pieces of chicken and pasta all tossed in a flavorful garlic sauce. The Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty touch, while the garlic brings a warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s a simple dish that feels special without requiring hours to make.
I really love making this when I want something comforting and satisfying but don’t want to fuss over complicated recipes. The best part is how easy it is to customize—sometimes I add a little spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to brighten things up or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes if I’m in the mood for a bit of a kick. It always feels like a homemade treat, no matter how simple it is.
When I serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I like to pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. It’s a great meal to share with family or friends because everyone seems to enjoy the comforting flavors and creamy sauce. Plus, leftovers are just as good the next day, which is always a bonus!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta: Bowtie pasta works great because its shape holds sauce well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta you like.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless breasts cook quickly and stay tender. Thighs are a good alternative if you want juicier meat.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a sharper flavor than pre-grated. If needed, Pecorino Romano also works well.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich and smooth texture. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or use milk with a little flour to thicken.
Spinach: Adds color and a fresh touch. Feel free to skip or use kale or arugula if preferred.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about preparation and proper cooking:
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and herbs like Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Heat the pan and oil before adding chicken – this helps create a golden crust.
- Cook chicken without moving it for 5-6 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- Check internal temperature: 165°F (75°C) means it’s done but still juicy.
- Let chicken rest a few minutes before slicing to keep its juices in.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta, I like a big one so it’s easy to stir.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – to flip chicken and toss the pasta in the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure the ingredients are just right.
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese; I prefer it fresh for the best flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for different proteins and flavors.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to add a sweet or smoky touch.
- Use different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or mozzarella for a twist on the flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian herbs to spice it up or enhance the seasoned notes.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and chicken, plus about 10-15 minutes making the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and bringing everything together. It’s a speedy, satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to mix everything well. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
4. Add Spinach and Pasta:
Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes until they wilt gently. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the bowties evenly with the creamy sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the creamy pasta and top it with the sliced grilled chicken. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water while sealed in a plastic bag for faster thawing. Pat dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to this Dish?
Absolutely! Spinach works great, but you can also add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers during the sauce step for extra flavor and color.
