If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chicken, a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this recipe is ideal for a cozy dinner or even a special occasion meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a small gathering, this pasta dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have at home!

Ingredients Breakdown

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta comes together with a handful of staple ingredients. Each component plays an essential role in creating the delicious balance of flavors and textures in this dish.

8 oz pasta – You can use any type of pasta, but fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti works well to hold the creamy sauce.
2 chicken breasts, diced – Chicken provides a hearty protein, and dicing it ensures quick cooking.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic is key to adding a bold, savory flavor to the sauce.
1 cup heavy cream – The cream forms the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce and prevents it from being too heavy.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan gives the sauce its cheesy, salty finish.
2 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to the finished dish.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this recipe effortlessly, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

A large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce.
A pot to cook the pasta.
A strainer to drain the cooked pasta.
A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
A knife and cutting board for preparing the chicken and garlic.

Having these tools ready will make your cooking process seamless and efficient!

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Now, let’s dive into the preparation process. This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken is evenly browned to develop a nice flavor.
Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring the mixture to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help concentrate the flavors and create a creamy texture.
Add the Parmesan Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until the pasta is fully coated. Make sure the pasta absorbs the sauce evenly for the best taste and texture.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamy garlic chicken pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley. This not only adds a burst of freshness but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Preparing the Chicken

For this recipe, it’s important to dice the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken, as it can cause steaming instead of browning. Searing the chicken properly locks in flavor and gives it a slightly crispy texture, which pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Making the Creamy Garlic Sauce

The key to achieving a smooth and luscious sauce is to simmer the cream and broth slowly. Avoid boiling the mixture, as it may cause the sauce to curdle. Stirring in the Parmesan cheese at the end helps thicken the sauce and gives it a rich, cheesy flavor. Be patient while the sauce thickens, and you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks to prevent it from becoming dry or rubbery. Aim for a golden brown color and juicy center.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so only sauté it for a short time (about a minute). Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the dish.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to create a hearty vegetarian version.
Lighter Sauce: For a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy garlic sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta visually appealing, plate it in shallow bowls or plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green. You can also serve the dish with a side of crusty garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra cheesy finish, grate some Parmesan over the top just before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when chilled. Warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the pasta with any variety you prefer. Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are all great options.

How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce, or stir in a little more Parmesan cheese to thicken it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately from the pasta and combine when ready to serve.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Also, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe