Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: Easy and Delicious Dinner Idea

Who doesn’t love a comforting bowl of creamy garlic chicken pasta after a long day? As a busy mom of two, I always look for recipes that are quick, delicious, and full of flavor, without requiring hours in the kitchen. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe ticks all the boxes.

With tender chicken strips, a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and a touch of parmesan, it’s the kind of meal that turns a regular weeknight dinner into something a little more special. If you’re looking for an easy creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe for dinner, this is a must-try!

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?

At its heart, this dish is all about balance—a luscious, creamy white sauce, perfectly seasoned chicken, and al dente pasta that soaks up every last bit of flavor. What makes this dish stand out is its blend of simplicity and decadence.

The garlic parmesan chicken pasta is versatile and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings. Whether you’re using fettuccine, pasta shells, or even garlic parmesan chicken penne pasta, the creamy sauce ties everything together for a rich, satisfying meal.

Ingredients List For Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouth-watering dish:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips or chicken tenders)
• 8 oz of pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or pasta shells)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Substitutions and Variations

Cooking is all about flexibility, and this recipe welcomes a little experimentation:

• Chicken alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute with shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. For a twist on Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you can also bread the chicken before cooking for added texture.
• Cream alternatives: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or creamy chicken pasta with milk to keep it lighter.
• Cheese alternatives: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, but you can also use pecorino romano. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast is a great option.
• Cooking methods: While this recipe is quick and perfect for stovetop cooking, you can also adapt it for a slow cooker or crockpot by cooking the chicken in the sauce for a few hours on low heat.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This will ensure your garlic parmesan chicken has a crispy outside and tender inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Penne, fettuccine, or pasta shells all work great. Make sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help thicken your sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan where you cooked the chicken, lower the heat slightly and add butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Stir frequently to avoid burning and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, creating the base of your garlic parmesan sauce.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the parmesan cheese, continuing to whisk until you have a smooth, creamy white sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use some reserved pasta water to loosen it up. You’ve just created the base for your easy creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat each strand. Slice the cooked chicken and stir it back into the pan as well. Everything should be well-mixed, and the pasta coated with that luxurious garlic parmesan sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. For a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Your creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe is ready to serve!

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooking the chicken strips can make them dry. Cook just until golden and fully cooked through.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so be sure to cook it over medium heat and stir constantly.
• Clumpy sauce: Whisk the parmesan cheese in slowly over low heat to prevent clumping.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation makes all the difference. To give this dish an elegant touch, serve the creamy garlic chicken pasta in shallow bowls and top with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley. If you’re preparing this dish for a casual dinner, consider pairing it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This dish pairs beautifully with sides like garlic bread or a simple salad with lemon vinaigrette. For a more filling meal, serve with a side of steamed veggies or roasted broccoli. The richness of the sauce is balanced by a fresh, crisp side.

Extra Recipe Tips For Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

1. Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days. This is perfect for meal prep if you want an easy creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe for dinner during the week.
2. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to refresh the creamy texture.
3. Slow cooker adaptation: For an effortless version, consider using a crockpot or slow cooker. Just add all ingredients and let the flavors meld together over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta types?

Yes, you can! Garlic parmesan chicken penne pasta or even pasta shells would work beautifully in this dish.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Absolutely! A slow cooker is perfect for tenderizing the chicken and blending the sauce together effortlessly.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! This dish is mild and creamy, making it a hit with kids. Feel free to omit any red pepper flakes for sensitive palates.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a simple yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a simple chicken pasta recipe or an easy creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe for dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

The balance of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a flavorful sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. Give it a try, and let this delicious meal bring joy to your table tonight