Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (One-Pan Recipe You’ll Love)

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy deliciousness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This one-pan recipe is not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The combination of juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, everything cooks in a single pan—so cleanup is a breeze!

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating this irresistible dish. From helpful tips to ingredient substitutions, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive in and learn how to make the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Easy and quick: Everything cooks in one pan, saving time and effort in the kitchen.
• Creamy and flavorful: The garlic-infused sauce combined with Parmesan cheese creates a rich and indulgent flavor.
• Minimal cleanup: No need for multiple pots and pans—this dish simplifies the cooking process.
• Customizable: You can swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
• Perfect for all occasions: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner with friends, this dish always impresses.

What You Need to Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken:

To create the perfect base for this recipe, you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless and skinless for easy preparation.
• Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken and adds a subtle flavor.
• Seasoning mix: A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the chicken’s flavor.

For the Pasta:

The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce comes together with these simple ingredients:

• Pasta: Use penne, fettuccine, or linguine for the best texture.
• Chicken broth: Acts as the liquid base for cooking the pasta and building flavor.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter option, substitute with milk.
• Fresh garlic cloves: The star ingredient for that signature garlic flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated for a nutty, creamy finish.
• Fresh parsley: Optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at home is simpler than you think. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and minimize hassle, all while keeping the cleanup to a single pan. Here’s how to make this creamy, delicious dish:

Rub Chicken with Seasoning Mixture

Start by seasoning your chicken for the ultimate flavor boost. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts or thighs. This ensures the chicken has a flavorful crust when seared.

Pro Tip: Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for 5 minutes before cooking to absorb the spices better.

Pan Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken in the pan and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re cooking multiple pieces, do it in batches to ensure even browning. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

Why this matters: Searing locks in juices, creating tender, juicy chicken. Plus, those browned bits left in the pan? They’ll add incredible flavor to the sauce.

Sauté Onion & Garlic

Using the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add a splash of olive oil if needed. Toss in finely chopped onions and minced fresh garlic. Stir frequently and cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Deglaze with Chicken Broth & Add Pasta

Next, deglaze the pan by pouring in chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits stuck to the bottom—this is where the magic happens!

Once the pan is deglazed, add your choice of pasta (penne, fettuccine, or linguine) directly into the broth. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the liquid. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Why this method works: Cooking pasta directly in the broth infuses it with flavor and thickens the sauce as the starch is released.

Finish It Off with Cream, Parmesan & Parsley

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Sprinkle in freshly chopped parsley for an herby finish.

Taste and adjust the seasonings—this is your chance to add more salt, pepper, or even a dash of chili flakes for heat.

Add Back in the Cooked Chicken

Slice the seared chicken into strips or leave it whole, depending on your preference. Nestle the chicken back into the pan, spoon some sauce over it, and let it warm through for a couple of minutes.

Presentation Tip: Garnish the dish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving for that Instagram-worthy look.

Common Questions About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or specific needs. Below are answers to some of the most common questions that come up when preparing this dish.

How Can I Tell When My Stainless Steel Pan Is Preheated?

Preheating a stainless steel pan is key to getting that perfect sear on your chicken. Here’s how to tell when your pan is ready:

• The Water Test: Add a few drops of water to the pan. If the droplets bead up and dance around, your pan is preheated.
• Shimmering Oil: When you add oil, it should shimmer slightly without smoking.

Preheating ensures the chicken doesn’t stick to the pan and gets that golden-brown crust.

Can I Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Here’s how to adapt the recipe:

• Use gluten-free pasta made from quinoa, chickpeas, or rice.
• Ensure your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free.
• Parmesan cheese is naturally gluten-free, so no changes are needed there.

By swapping out the pasta and double-checking your ingredients, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising flavor.

Can I Make This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dairy-Free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this recipe. Try these substitutions:

• Use unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
• Opt for a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, such as nutritional yeast or plant-based Parmesan cheese.
• Check that the butter or oil you’re using is non-dairy if you’re avoiding all dairy products.

With these changes, the dish will still be creamy and flavorful.

Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?

If you’re out of heavy cream or want a lighter option, milk is a great substitute. Here’s how to make it work:

• Use whole milk for the best results, as it’s creamier than skim milk.
• To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour or cornstarch with the milk before adding it to the pan.

This creates a similar creamy consistency while keeping the dish slightly lighter.

What Should I Serve With This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its creamy, savory flavor. Consider serving it with:

• A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for balance.
• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the sauce.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for added color and nutrition.

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Want to take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan When Searing Chicken

Cooking the chicken in batches, if needed, ensures a golden crust rather than steaming the meat. Overcrowding traps moisture, preventing that crispy, flavorful sear.

2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese

Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grating Parmesan allows it to melt smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.

3. Stir the Pasta Occasionally While Cooking

Since the pasta cooks in the broth, stirring prevents it from sticking together or burning at the bottom. This step is crucial for even cooking.

4. Balance the Garlic Flavor

If you love a strong garlic taste, use roasted garlic instead of fresh minced garlic for a milder, slightly sweet flavor. If you prefer a punchy garlic kick, stick with freshly minced cloves.

5. Adjust the Sauce Consistency

• If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
• If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or stir in a small amount of additional Parmesan cheese.

How Do the Leftovers Store?

Got leftovers? Great! This dish tastes just as good the next day if stored properly.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate when reheated.

How to Reheat Without Drying It Out:

• On the Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.
• In the Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating.

Looking for More Pasta Recipes?

If you love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, try these other delicious pasta dishes:

• Best Sandwich for Potato Soup – A perfect side option!
• Parmesan Garlic Hash Browns – Another cheesy, garlicky comfort food favorite.
• Fruit Cocktail Salad – A light and refreshing way to end the meal.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make sure you nail this recipe and answer any lingering questions, here’s a detailed FAQ section inspired by what people commonly ask about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

What is the best pasta type for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

While penne is a popular choice for this dish, you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or farfalle. Each pasta type offers a slightly different texture, but all of them work well with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni captures the sauce in their grooves, while long pasta like linguine creates a luxurious, twirlable experience.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the best choice for a smooth and creamy sauce. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-clumping agents, which can prevent it from melting properly and may cause the sauce to become grainy. If you’re short on time, use pre-grated cheese sparingly and opt for high-quality brands.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

For an extra flavor boost, consider these tips:

• Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to brighten up the sauce.
• Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Incorporate roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the dish. Great options include:

• Broccoli – Blanch or steam and stir it in at the end.
• Spinach – Toss in a handful during the last few minutes of cooking for a wilted, tender texture.
• Cherry tomatoes – Sauté with the garlic and onions for a juicy, tangy addition.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

The key to reheating creamy pasta is to avoid drying it out. Here’s how:

• Stovetop: Warm the pasta over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time) and stir between each interval, adding liquid as needed.

Can I use a non-stick pan instead of a stainless steel skillet?

Yes, you can use a non-stick pan, but keep in mind that stainless steel or cast-iron pans tend to create better caramelization and browning. These browned bits (also known as fond) add depth of flavor when deglazed with chicken broth. If using non-stick, the process will still work, but the flavor might be slightly milder.

Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Unfortunately, cream-based sauces don’t freeze well because they tend to separate when thawed and reheated. If you want to freeze the dish, omit the cream and Parmesan when cooking, and add them fresh after reheating.

With these FAQs, you’re fully equipped to tackle any challenges or variations for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or making it for a cozy family meal, this creamy and flavorful pasta is sure to impress.

Remember, this one-pan wonder is not only delicious but also easy to customize with gluten-free pasta, dairy-free alternatives, or added veggies. Follow the expert tips, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and most importantly—enjoy every bite!

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