Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken

Name: Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 20 oz total); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 10 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: January 16, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken

This incredible Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; trust me, the more garlic, the better!
Pasta of Your Choice: Fettuccine or penne works great; just make sure it’s something that can hold onto all that scrumptious sauce.
Heavy Cream: The secret behind that dreamy creaminess; don’t skimp here!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated if possible—because who doesn’t want to feel fancy?
Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding flavor; extra virgin is always a good choice.
Salt and Pepper: The dynamic duo of seasoning—don’t forget them!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds color and freshness; it’s like confetti for your plate!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in some olive oil and season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, add those beauties in and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let them rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your chicken is resting like royalty, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it but reserve about one cup of that glorious pasta water—it’ll save your sauce later!

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet where you cooked your chicken (because we’re all about maximizing flavor here), add another splash of olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant—but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn; burnt garlic is not your friend.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly—you’re about to create magic! Once it starts bubbling gently, sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If you want it saucier (and who doesn’t?), add some reserved pasta water until you reach desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Chop up those rested chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them back into the creamy sauce along with your drained pasta. Stir everything together until each noodle is coated in that dreamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer everything onto plates (or bowls if you want to be fancy) and finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for flair. Prepare yourself for compliments because this dish looks as good as it tastes!

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palate (or at least keep your friends coming back for seconds). Enjoy every luscious bite!

You Must Know About Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken

This showstopping Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the rich and creamy garlic sauce. This method ensures that each component is cooked to perfection and ready to marry together in a delicious union.

Flavor Your Way

Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients! Try using shrimp or mushrooms instead of chicken, or add spinach for a pop of color. Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or mozzarella to customize your creamy garlic pasta experience.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover creamy garlic pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture and heat gently on the stovetop.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken

This professional-quality Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Nothing beats that moment when my friends take their first bite of this creamy garlic pasta. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they exclaimed it was better than their favorite Italian restaurant! Moments like these make cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

What is Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken?

Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender pieces of chicken mixed with pasta in a rich, creamy garlic sauce. The combination of sautéed garlic and cream creates a luscious coating for the pasta, enhancing its flavor. This dish is loved for its ease of preparation and comforting taste, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. By incorporating fresh herbs and spices, you can elevate this dish even further. Using ingredients like Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of richness that complements the garlic beautifully.

How do I make Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken?

To prepare Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken, start by cooking your choice of pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant, then add diced chicken and cook until golden brown. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to thicken slightly. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated well. Finish with fresh parsley and serve hot! This simple process results in a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

Can I customize my Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken is its versatility. You can add vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Consider substituting chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for different protein options. For those who prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or incorporate whole wheat pasta to enhance its health benefits without losing taste.

What are some side dishes to serve with Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken?

When serving Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken, consider pairing it with light side dishes to balance the richness of the meal. A fresh garden salad dressed in vinaigrette makes an excellent choice. Alternatively, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a nice crunch and complement the flavors beautifully. Garlic bread also works wonderfully, allowing you to savor every drop of that creamy sauce. These sides enhance your dining experience without overshadowing the main dish.

Conclusion

In summary, Creamy Garlic Pasta with Chicken is an easy yet indulgent meal perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you choose to customize it or stick to the classic recipe, this dish remains a favorite among pasta lovers. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various ingredients to make it your own while enjoying the delightful experience that comes from preparing this comforting meal at home.

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