Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute One-Pan Dinner
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute One-Pan Dinner
When you need a comforting, restaurant-quality dinner on the table in record time, this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers everything you crave. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the most luxurious cheesy garlic sauce all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. This family-friendly recipe combines the richness of parmesan with aromatic garlic for a meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with pantry staples.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together the best of comfort food with the convenience of a quick-cooking recipe. If you love easy pasta dishes, you’ll also enjoy our creamy chicken ranch pasta for another delicious variation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the pasta directly to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Finish with butter and fresh parsley, then serve immediately. For another quick pasta option, try our creamy one-pot salmon pasta that’s equally fast and delicious.
Expert Tips
For the best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly into the sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta – it should be al dente when you add the cream and cheese. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes after adding the dairy.
This recipe is versatile – you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking. For more chicken dinner inspiration, check out our crispy parmesan chicken with creamy garlic sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well in this recipe. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the creamy sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance. For more make-ahead dinner ideas, explore our instant pot chicken and rice recipe.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: 30-Minute One-Pan Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the pasta directly to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Finish with butter and fresh parsley, then serve immediately.
