This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the definition of comfort food — rich, silky, and full of flavor. Tender pasta is tossed with juicy chicken, sautéed garlic, and a velvety cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s simple enough for weeknights but feels special enough for company. Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta brings restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen with everyday ingredients and cozy homemade charm.
🛒 Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Make sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cream & seasoning: Pour in heavy cream, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Combine: Add chicken and pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time for desired creaminess.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted veggies.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with lemon juice or top with crispy bacon for a flavor boost.
🧊 Storage & Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.
- Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Great for meal prep — just cook pasta slightly underdone before mixing.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
- Add chicken and pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water a splash at a time for desired creaminess.
- Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve warm.
Notes
❓ FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the dish.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas all make tasty, colorful additions.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, make the sauce and chicken in advance, then toss with fresh-cooked pasta right before serving.
📖 Recipe Card
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Servings: 4
Tender pasta tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce with juicy chicken and parmesan — simple, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes.
🍂 Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the kind of dinner that warms hearts and fills bellies — creamy, garlicky, and completely comforting. The silky sauce coats every bite of tender pasta and juicy chicken, making it a recipe you’ll crave again and again. Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, it’s a true kitchen staple. Cozy, satisfying, and full of flavor — 👉 grab a fork and twirl your way to pure comfort!