If you’re dreaming of a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is calling your name. It’s rich and luscious, packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety parmesan garlic sauce that clings to every bite. This dish tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant—yet it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight.

The garlic-infused sauce mingles beautifully with juicy bites of chicken and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something indulgent, this recipe delivers flavor, comfort, and simplicity all in one skillet.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pastas like rotini, penne, or rigatoni are excellent choices because their grooves catch the creamy sauce so well. However, if you love long pasta, fettuccine or spaghetti will work beautifully too. Use what you have or what your family loves most.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

12 oz rotini pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped parsley, for garnish

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (1)

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Pasta Dish

Serve this pasta piping hot with crusty garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad on the side. It’s filling enough to be a complete meal but still pairs wonderfully with simple sides.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and remain juicy, just adjust cooking time as needed.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Greek yogurt can also work with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

What vegetables can I add?

Baby spinach, broccoli florets, or peas are great add-ins. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Does this freeze well?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Just note the cream sauce may separate a bit when thawed.

How spicy is it?

The crushed red pepper adds a mild kick. Leave it out or adjust to your taste.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has you hooked, check out these other pasta favorites:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add mushrooms? Swap the pasta? Try a spicy twist?

I love seeing your delicious spins on these recipes. Ask questions or share your photos—we’re all here to inspire each other!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish. Packed with juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich parmesan garlic cream sauce, it’s a perfect meal for weeknights or special dinners.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan if desired.