Looking for a quick and comforting dinner that the whole family will enjoy? This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a simple homemade meal packed with tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.

The best part is that you can have this delicious dinner on the table in about 30 minutes. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pasta water
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and lightly golden.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet.

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet.

Pour in a little of the reserved pasta water and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy garlic sauce.

If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.

5. Serve

Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
• Do not overcook the chicken; bite-sized pieces cook quickly.
• Save some pasta water before draining. It helps loosen and combine the sauce.
• Cook the garlic briefly to prevent it from becoming bitter.
• Serve the pasta while it is hot for the best texture.

Easy Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste.

Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. You can also use penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or another pasta shape you already have at home.

For a little extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well in this recipe. Cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

Can I make this pasta without heavy cream?

Yes. You can use half-and-half or another suitable creamy dairy alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and richness of the sauce may be slightly different.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

This pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheated.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, spaghetti, and linguine all work well. Choose your favorite pasta or use whatever you have available.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is an easy, comforting, and flavorful dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes. With tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite pasta, it is a simple meal that works perfectly for busy weeknights.

Give this recipe a try the next time you need a quick family dinner. It may become one of your favorite homemade pasta dishes!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4