Name: creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rotini); 2 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional); pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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If you’ve ever come home after a long day and just wanted something warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta brings together tender pieces of chicken, golden garlic, and a silky white sauce that hugs every swirl of pasta. It’s the type of Easy Chicken Dinner that turns ordinary weeknights into something special, even when your energy is running on empty.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Easy 30-Minute Dinner Recipe

This dish has that comforting restaurant-style flavor, but it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have stocked—chicken breast, butter, cream, garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy tools to enjoy a meal that tastes rich and indulgent. In fact, it can be ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish, ideal for Quick Weeknight Meals that feed the whole family.

I still remember the first time I made this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It was one of those evenings when the fridge was half-empty, and I needed something quick but comforting for dinner. The moment garlic hit the buttered pan, the kitchen filled with that unmistakable aroma of warmth and coziness. As the cream simmered and the Parmesan melted into a velvety sauce, it transformed those simple ingredients into something far more special.

From that night forward, this pasta has earned its place as one of our ultimate Easy Chicken Dinner options. It’s now what we reach for when schedules are packed, and everyone is craving something homemade yet fuss-free. What makes it such a hit—especially with the kids—is the balance of creamy sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, and a hint of garlic that ties it all together.

There’s also a bit of nostalgia in it. Every bite reminds me of slow evenings around the table, when conversation flowed between forkfuls of creamy pasta. Over time, it’s become one of our most trusted Family Dinner Ideas, the kind of recipe that feels like home no matter how hectic the day has been.

Why You’ll Love This White Sauce Chicken Pasta

There’s a reason this White Sauce Chicken Pasta earns rave reviews from anyone who tries it. First, it’s practical—ready in 30 minutes, made all in one pan, and easy to clean up afterward. The ingredients are straightforward, but the result tastes like something you’d order at your favorite local bistro.

Each element plays its part: juicy seared chicken packs in lean protein; the garlic and butter create a savory depth of flavor; and the creamy Parmesan sauce coats the pasta in a way that feels both rich and light at the same time. It’s also adaptable—you can swap the pasta shape, use milk instead of cream for a lighter version, or toss in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to boost nutrition.

Most importantly, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table happy. Even picky eaters fall in love with its mild, creamy flavor. It’s also perfect for meal prepping ahead of busy weekdays, or for doubling up when cooking for guests. That’s why so many people consider it their go-to option for Quick Weeknight Meals and dependable Family Dinner Ideas.

So if you’re ready to create something that’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to please, this White Sauce Chicken Pasta is the one recipe you’ll keep coming back to. It’s more than just dinner—it’s comfort in a bowl, shared with the people who matter most.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Before you dive into cooking, it helps to have every ingredient ready to go. The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is that it uses simple staples found in most kitchens—each one bringing depth and richness to the final dish.

Ingredient	Amount	Notes/Substitutions
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2 medium (about 1 lb total)	Substitute with chicken thighs for extra tenderness
Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or rotini)	12 oz	Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version
Butter	2 tbsp	Adds richness; use olive oil for lighter version
Garlic	4 cloves, minced	Fresh gives best aroma—use garlic powder in a pinch
Heavy cream	1½ cups	Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for lighter sauce
Chicken broth	½ cup	Adds flavor and helps adjust consistency
Freshly grated Parmesan	¾ cup	Avoid pre-shredded for smoother melting
Italian seasoning	1 tsp	Optional, adds herby note
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Balances all flavors
Fresh parsley (optional)	2 tbsp, chopped	For garnish and color
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)	Pinch	Brings gentle heat

The foundation of this White Sauce Chicken Pasta lies in quality Parmesan and fresh garlic. These two ingredients transform the sauce into something restaurant-worthy with minimal effort. Adjust the garlic to your liking—it’s the soul of the sauce but can be toned down for milder palates.

For a lighter option, substitute milk for the cream and whisk in a teaspoon of flour to keep the velvety texture. Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli turns this Easy Chicken Dinner into a wholesome, well-rounded meal.

Having everything measured and ready ensures your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta stays true to its 30-minute promise—quick, creamy, and deeply rewarding.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools for Quick Preparation

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Evenly cooks chicken and holds enough sauce and pasta later.
Whisk: Ensures a lump-free, smooth sauce.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For evenly sized chicken pieces.
Tongs: Handy for flipping chicken and tossing pasta.
Large Pasta Pot: Boil pasta in ample salted water to season it early.
Grater or Microplane: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Keeps ingredient ratios balanced.
Strainer or Colander: Saves a bit of pasta water for sauce adjustment.

Having these tools ready keeps the process seamless. With proper prep, making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 minutes is completely achievable. The right equipment lets you focus on the rewarding part—the scent of garlic, the creamy swirl of sauce, and the proud moment when your White Sauce Chicken Pasta is table-ready.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method & Tips

Cooking the Chicken and Making the White Sauce

Prep and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry, slice for thickness, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Sear the Chicken: Heat butter or oil in a skillet. Sear each side 4–5 minutes until golden and fully cooked (165°F). Rest the chicken on a plate.
Build the Garlic Base: Melt butter in the same pan, sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
Create the Sauce: Deglaze with chicken broth, then add cream. Gradually whisk in Parmesan until the sauce thickens. Adjust texture with reserved pasta water if needed, season to taste.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Slice and return chicken to the pan, simmer briefly to blend flavors.

Time Saver: Boil pasta while the chicken cooks.
Perfect Texture: Sauce should coat the spoon but flow slowly.
Flavor Key: Don’t overcook garlic; light golden is ideal.

Following these steps ensures your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta stays silky, flavorful, and restaurant-ready in half an hour—a lifesaver for Quick Weeknight Meals.

Assembling the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook pasta al dente, reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain.
Combine: Add pasta into skillet with sauce and chicken. Toss gently, adjusting sauce with pasta water until creamy and cohesive.
Adjust & Finish: Taste, add salt or lemon for brightness, garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes.
Serve: Present directly from skillet for family style or plate portions topped with extra Parmesan.

Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftovers up to three days. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to maintain richness.

Every forkful of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta delivers homey comfort and elegance. Ideal for families, casual dinners, or cozy nights in, it’s a dependable Easy Chicken Dinner you’ll remake often.

FAQs + Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes. Toss shredded rotisserie chicken into the sauce and pasta at the end. Heat until warm for a shortcut Easy Chicken Dinner.

What’s the best pasta type? Fettuccine, penne, or rotini hold sauce well. For lighter Quick Weeknight Meals, try spaghetti or linguine—cook al dente for ideal texture.

Can I make this White Sauce Chicken Pasta ahead? Prepare the sauce and chicken up to two days early. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta, loosening with milk or cream.

How do I thicken the sauce? Simmer a few extra minutes to reduce, or whisk in more Parmesan for a creamier, thicker consistency.

What sides work best? Pair with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad. These lighten the rich, creamy main for balanced Family Dinner Ideas.

Conclusion – A Delicious Ending to Your Day

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta proves that comfort and convenience coexist beautifully. It’s indulgent yet easy, ready in half an hour, and made from pantry-friendly ingredients.

Whether you’re looking to add to your rotation of Quick Weeknight Meals or selecting crowd-pleasing Family Dinner Ideas, this creamy pasta stands out. The tender chicken, velvety white sauce, and hint of garlic deliver the cozy satisfaction everyone craves after a long day.

Next time you need an Easy Chicken Dinner, skip takeout and make this White Sauce Chicken Pasta instead. Serve generously, share with loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.