Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes or Less
Creamy, comforting, and ready in 30 minutes—Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the weeknight dinner that wins every time. Rich garlic and parmesan sauce hugs seared chicken and pasta for a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Season sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and cover with foil.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream. Simmer gently. Stir in parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let thicken 3–5 minutes.
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until coated in sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Top with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
Use fresh garlic and real parmesan for the best flavor. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of cream. Rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked bites can be used as a shortcut.
Nutrition
Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
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