If you’re ever searching for the perfect balance of comfort and flavor, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Imagine juicy, herb-seasoned chicken nestled atop creamy, garlic-infused pasta, all crowned with a flurry of fresh parsley and plenty of Parmesan cheese. This dish comes together in one pan, making it an irresistible dinner option for busy weeknights and leisurely weekends alike. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that never gets old, and every forkful promises that unforgettable harmony of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta recipe relies on straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of taste, silky creaminess, and visual appeal. Trust me, there’s no room for skimping here—every item on the list truly matters.

Avocado oil (or olive oil): The unsung hero for searing chicken and sautéing veggies, this oil adds a subtle richness and helps everything crisp or caramelize just right.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or pounded to an even ½-inch, this allows for juicy, evenly-cooked bites throughout.
Italian seasoning: A vibrant blend of herbs that instantly brings Mediterranean flair and aromatic depth to the chicken.
Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky warmth and gives the chicken a beautiful golden color.
Salt & pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life, never underestimate these basics!
Unsalted butter: Combined with oil, it’s the secret to extra rich flavor in the sautéed aromatics.
Jumbo yellow onion: When diced and sautéed, it imparts gentle sweetness and lends body to the sauce.
Large garlic cloves: The star of the show for that classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta bite—garlic lovers, rejoice!
Dry penne pasta: Penne’s shape perfectly hugs the sauce for maximum creamy coverage; use your favorite, even gluten-free or protein-rich varieties work.
Chicken broth: Infuses the pasta and sauce with deep savory notes, elevating the whole dish beyond plain water.
Finely grated Parmesan cheese: The cornerstone of the sauce—be generous for flavor, creaminess, and that signature cheesy sheen.
Heavy cream: Enriches the sauce for that luscious, velvety finish that clings to every piece of pasta.
Chopped parsley: Adds color, freshness, and a bright counterpoint to the creamy richness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start strong by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this ensures the seasoning really sticks and your chicken sears beautifully. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, then rub this blend all over both sides of the chicken. This quick step sets the stage for flavorful, perfectly seasoned bites in every forkful.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large pan over medium heat, then swirl in your avocado or olive oil. Once it shimmers, lay in the chicken and cook for 3 to 5 minutes per side. The goal: a deep golden crust on the outside and juicy, tender chicken inside. Double check it’s done by ensuring the internal temperature hits 165°F. Set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the pasta goodness.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Turn the heat down to medium-low and add another splash of oil plus the butter (the best of both worlds!). Toss in the diced onion with a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until the onion turns soft and slightly translucent—about 3 minutes. At this point, go in with your minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant. It’s a small step, but this part really pours on the flavor for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan—these are pure flavor gold! Once the broth starts a gentle boil, stir in your dry penne, ensuring every piece is submerged. This method lets the pasta soak up every ounce of savory, garlicky broth.

Step 5: Simmer the Pasta

Cover the pan and let it bubble for about 10 minutes, just until the pasta is perfectly al dente. Give it a stir now and then to keep things moving and check for doneness. The kitchen will already be swirling with aroma at this point, building anticipation!

Step 6: Finish the Creamy Sauce

Turn off the heat and immediately add in the grated Parmesan, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until the cheese is completely melted and you have a creamy, slightly thickened sauce. Now’s the moment to sample and adjust your salt and pepper to taste—the sauce should taste cozy, garlicky, and deeply savory.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Slice your rested chicken into tempting strips, nestle it back into the pan, and toss with the creamy pasta. Every bite will be coated in sauce, filled with herby, garlicky flavor, and punctuated by that hint of fresh parsley. Serve immediately and get ready for smiles all around.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Garnishes

For that final flourish, top each plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan cheese. Cracked black pepper adds a touch of heat, and if you want even more zing, a dusting of red pepper flakes brings both color and a gentle kick. A squeeze of lemon is entirely optional but beautifully brightens everything on the plate.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta pairs effortlessly with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, which cuts through the creamy richness. Steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans keep things fresh and colorful. And if you’re craving full-on comfort, pass around a warm basket of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate the experience, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with the chicken fanned across the top. For a family-style approach, pile everything onto a big platter and let everyone help themselves—the presentation looks rustic, inviting, and festive. You can even spoon individual portions into mini cast-iron skillets for a cozy, restaurant-style touch that turns any night into a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta should be cooled to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep nicely in the fridge for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick next-day lunch.

Freezing

If you have extra portions, freezing is an option! Pack cooled pasta and chicken into freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. The dish will keep its quality for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce before gently warming in a skillet or microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If reheating from frozen, fully thaw first for the creamiest texture and to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for hugging the creamy sauce, you can swap in rotini, rigatoni, or even fettuccine—each one will give the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta a unique twist, so use your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make dairy-free adjustments by using a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still capture that luscious, garlicky richness that defines this recipe.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

You sure can. The chicken can be seasoned, cooked, cooled, and stored in the fridge for up to two days before assembling the pasta and sauce. This trick lets you bring Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta together even faster on a busy evening.

How do I avoid the pasta sticking together?

Keep the pasta submerged in the broth as it cooks and give it a stir once or twice. If it’s looking too dry before al dente, splash in a bit more broth or water as needed.

What’s the best Parmesan to use?

Go for a wedge of real Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself for maximum flavor and meltability. Pre-grated cheeses often have anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy, so freshly grated gives you the best possible Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta result.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to overstate just how comforting and satisfying a big plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta can be—especially when you make it yourself, from scratch, all in one pan. Give this recipe a try, enjoy the warm, garlicky aromas in your kitchen, and share it with someone you love. I promise, it’ll become an instant favorite in your regular dinner rotation!