🍝🧄 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A creamy, comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Parmesan garlic sauce. This recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The savory garlic flavor and cheesy sauce coat every strand of pasta for a truly satisfying meal. 😋🍝
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines juicy sautéed chicken, pasta, and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce into one irresistible dish. Using bottled Parmesan garlic sauce makes the recipe incredibly simple while still delivering restaurant-quality flavor.
The result is a rich, cheesy, garlicky pasta that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini)
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2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 bottle Parmesan garlic sauce (about 12 oz)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup heavy cream or milk
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Cook chicken pieces 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
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Remove chicken and set aside.
3️⃣ Prepare the Sauce
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In the same skillet melt butter.
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Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the bottled Parmesan garlic sauce.
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Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
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Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thick.
4️⃣ Combine Everything
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Add cooked pasta to the skillet.
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Return chicken to the pan.
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Toss everything together until well coated in sauce.
5️⃣ Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
Servings
4 servings
Time Required
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
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Calories: 520 kcal
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Protein: 32 g
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Fat: 26 g
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Carbohydrates: 42 g
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Sodium: 780 mg
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
✔ Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
✔ Reserve ½ cup pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
✔ Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
✔ A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor.
Recipe Notes
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Rotisserie chicken can be used for an even quicker meal.
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Penne and fettuccine hold creamy sauces best.
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If the sauce thickens too much, add milk or pasta water.
Benefits
🍗 High Protein – Chicken supports muscle health.
🧄 Garlic Boosts Immunity – Contains beneficial antioxidants.
🧀 Parmesan Adds Calcium – Supports bone strength.
⚡ Energy-Rich Meal – Provides carbs and protein for energy.
Q & A
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and works perfectly.
Q2: Can I make this recipe lighter?
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Q3: What vegetables go well in this pasta?
Great additions include:
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Spinach
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Broccoli
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Mushrooms
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Sun-dried tomatoes
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q5: Can I freeze this pasta?
Cream-based pasta can be frozen, but the sauce may separate slightly when reheated.