Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

By:

dani

Published:

September 21, 2025

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s creamy, cheesy, and brimming with garlic goodness—everything you could want in a comforting recipe. Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked cavatappi, coated in a rich, velvety sauce that clings lovingly to tender pieces of chicken. You can whip this up even if you’re short on time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, what’s not to love about the intoxicating aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen? Get ready to bring everyone to the table, for this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on crafting this delicious meal that will soon become a favorite in your home!

Why This Recipe Works

The appeal of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The creamy texture, enhanced by garlic and parmesan, melds beautifully with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It’s simple enough for novice cooks, ensuring delicious results with minimal fuss. Anyone can master these cooking techniques, which keeps the joy of cooking alive. Plus, the versatility of the ingredients means you can adapt this dish to fit any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

You’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The comforting flavors evoke warmth and satisfaction, wrapping you in a cozy blanket of taste. Moreover, it’s not just limited to chicken; you can easily customize this creamy delight by throwing in your favorite vegetables or even swapping proteins. This means you can make it a little different every time, so it never gets boring.

Ingredients

To make this cozy dish, here’s what you’ll need:

12 ounces cavatappi pasta
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (12 ounces / 360 g) chicken broth
½ cup (119 g) heavy cream
1 cup (100 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking the Pasta

Bring Water to a Boil

Start by filling a large pot with salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil—this helps the pasta cook evenly.

Cook the Cavatappi

Once the water is boiling, add the cavatappi pasta. Cook as per package directions until it’s al dente, leaving a little bite to it. Before you drain the pasta, reserve about a cup of that precious pasta water. Set the drained pasta aside for later.

Preparing the Chicken

Season the Chicken

Now, let’s season the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the cubed chicken, ensuring every piece is flavored just right.

Sear the Chicken

Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. When the butter is melted and bubbly, add the seasoned chicken. Sear it for about 3–4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Creating the Sauce

Cook the Garlic

Lower the heat a bit. In the same skillet, toss in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Cook it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.

Make the Roux

Stir in the all-purpose flour, cooking for another minute while constantly stirring. This forms a roux, which will help thicken our sauce.

Add Liquids to the Roux

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 3–4 minutes. Stir often to keep things smooth and prevent sticking.

Incorporate Cheese

Now comes the best part! Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Make sure to season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Combining Ingredients

Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked cavatappi to the creamy sauce and gently stir until every piece is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, this is where that reserved pasta water comes into play. Add a little at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.

Add Chicken

Now, toss the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure that the pasta and chicken are evenly mixed and warmed through.

Garnish and Serve

Final Touches

Serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot! Garnish it with fresh parsley and more parmesan cheese to add a little flair.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with a crisp side salad or some buttery garlic bread. A glass of white wine pairs perfectly for a delightful dining experience.

Tips for Success

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning it. This helps achieve a nice sear.
Always use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It’s a lifesaver for adjusting your sauce!

Variations

Want to add veggies? Toss in some fresh spinach or broccoli for a nutritional boost.
If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute chicken with shrimp or mushrooms to mix things up.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back that luscious creaminess.

Pairing Ideas

A light, crisp salad like Caesar or arugula can complement the richness of the dish. Roasted seasonal vegetables also make for a wonderful accompaniment.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta variety works well, like penne or fusilli.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Just swap in gluten-free pasta and flour, and you’re set!

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can also prep the sauce and store it separately from the pasta.

4. What can I do with leftovers?
Mix them into a pasta bake or a fresh salad for a cold dish.

5. Can I freeze this meal?
It’s not the best option due to the cream sauce, but you can freeze the chicken or sauce separately.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly; it warms your soul. With its blend of simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this hearty meal brings families together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy nights or special occasions, the rich, creamy sauce envelops each piece of pasta and chicken, making every bite satisfying. Feel free to personalize the dish, creating a version that’ll become a cherished go-to in your household for years to come!