Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil); 1 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion (diced, 1 cup); 4-6 large cloves garlic (minced); 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free, or protein pasta); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 86 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, flavorful, and utterly satisfying meal, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender, juicy chicken seasoned to perfection with a creamy, garlicky parmesan pasta that’s rich without being overwhelming. Every bite bursts with layers of savory goodness, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests. Let me take you through how easy and rewarding it is to whip up this delicious dish that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a silver tray on a white marbled surface holding several ingredients. On the lower left, three raw pink chicken fillets lay on a white plate. Above them, in a white bowl, there is uncooked pale yellow penne pasta. Next to the pasta is another white bowl filled with finely grated white cheese. At the bottom right of the cheese, three spices are seen in a small white bowl with salt, black pepper, and red paprika. To the right of the spices is a small white bowl holding golden olive oil, and next to it, a small white dish contains a pale yellow cube of butter. Above that is a clear measuring cup filled with white milk, and in the front right corner is a larger clear measuring cup with golden-yellow chicken broth. Near the broth, a yellow onion and a whole garlic bulb rest on the tray. In the top right corner is a large bunch of bright green parsley. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Simple pantry staples and fresh elements come together to give you a dish that’s silky, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Avocado oil (or olive oil): A healthy, high-smoke point oil for perfectly searing your chicken and sautéing aromatics.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied for even cooking and quick searing to lock in juicy flavor.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that adds depth and warmth to the chicken’s seasoning.
Paprika: Contributes subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
Salt & pepper: Essential to enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps cook onions to a tender sweetness.
Jumbo yellow onion: Provides a mild, natural sweetness and base flavor for the sauce.
Garlic cloves: The star ingredient that infuses both the chicken and pasta with irresistible aroma.
Dry penne pasta: Chosen for its ability to hold creamy sauce perfectly in its ridges and tubes.
Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps cook the pasta right in the pan with other flavors.
Finely grated parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty richness that melts beautifully into the sauce.
Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, silky texture that coats each strand of pasta.
Chopped parsley: The fresh finishing touch that brightens and elevates the dish visually and taste-wise.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Season Your Chicken to Perfection

Start by mixing Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This blend is going to be the flavor foundation for your chicken, so don’t hold back! Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel then lovingly rub both sides with the seasoning mixture. This ensures every bite is packed with that perfect savory punch.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Until Golden and Juicy

Heat a large pan over medium heat, add avocado oil, then your beautifully seasoned chicken. Cooking 3 to 5 minutes per side locks in juices and creates a golden crust that just sings flavor. Once cooked through and reaching an internal temperature of 165F, remove the chicken and let it rest to retain all those mouthwatering juices.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic for Aromatic Base

Turn your pan’s heat down to medium-low and add more avocado oil alongside the butter. Toss in the diced onion with a pinch of salt to draw out its natural sweetness. Cook until the onions turn translucent and start to soften, about 3 minutes. Follow with minced garlic to infuse that unmistakable garlicky warmth into your sauce base.

Step 4: Deglaze and Introduce Pasta and Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. These bits are pure gold for flavor. Bring the broth to a gentle boil, then stir in your dry penne pasta. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged so it cooks evenly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta to Al Dente

Cover your pan and let everything cook for about 10 minutes. This method allows the pasta to absorb the broth, marry with the garlic and onion base, and reach a perfect al dente texture that holds the sauce beautifully.

Step 6: Enrich with Parmesan, Cream, and Parsley

Once the pasta is ready, turn off the heat and stir in finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and fresh parsley. These ingredients transform your dish into a creamy, dreamy delight that clings to each penne piece. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking and revel in how this sauce comes together in a velvety, flavorful wash.

Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta, Then Serve

Slice your rested chicken into strips and gently fold it into the luscious pasta sauce. This final step melds everything into a dish that’s incredibly satisfying and ready to wow your taste buds. Serve immediately, and get ready for all the compliments!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

A white plate filled with creamy pasta and grilled chicken strips, the penne pasta coated in a light beige sauce with green herb bits scattered throughout. The chicken pieces are golden brown with a slightly charred texture, mixed evenly on top and throughout the pasta. A black fork lifts a bite of pasta and chicken, showing off the sauce's creamy texture. Behind the plate, a shiny silver pan with a wooden handle holds more of the same pasta dish, set on a wooden surface with a white cloth nearby. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while a little extra grated parmesan cheese on top brings an irresistible salty kick. For a touch of zing, a light drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the dish without stealing the spotlight.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccolini. The contrast of fresh, crunchy sides perfectly balances the creamy richness of the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and chicken slices elegantly. For a casual twist, pile it high on a rustic wooden board alongside some crusty garlic bread. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can turn it into a stunning centerpiece for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce slightly thicker so it holds up well without separating when reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze the dish, but it’s best to do so before adding the cream and parmesan sauce, as dairy sometimes changes texture after freezing. Freeze the pasta and chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then add fresh sauce when reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, do it gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the silky sauce texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat and can be even juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time since thighs might take a little longer to cook through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it can be! Simply use gluten-free pasta and double-check your chicken broth and seasonings for any hidden gluten ingredients. The dish will be just as delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. For protein, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best way to grate parmesan cheese for this recipe?

Use a fine microplane or box grater for parmesan. Freshly grated cheese melts faster and blends beautifully into the sauce, giving you that rich, creamy texture.

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

You can try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy and rich. To maintain thickness, consider adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to gently thicken the sauce.

Final Thoughts

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe because it truly hits all the right notes — simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and incredible flavor. Once you make it, you’ll find it hard to turn to any other weeknight dinner. It’s a cozy, delicious hug on a plate that never fails to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!