Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of creamy garlic chicken with pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends over the weekend, this recipe checks all the boxes — it’s flavorful, quick to prepare, and irresistibly creamy. The tender chicken, smothered in a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, paired with perfectly cooked pasta, makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this dish, along with helpful tips and variations to customize it to your liking.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken with Pasta Recipe
This creamy garlic chicken with pasta recipe brings restaurant-style comfort food right into your kitchen. It combines pantry staples like garlic, heavy cream, and pasta with juicy chicken breasts for a meal that feels indulgent but is simple to make.
Key highlights:
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Uses just one pan for easy cleanup
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Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
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Easily customizable with veggies or protein swaps
Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a reliable go-to chicken with pasta recipe, this one delivers on both taste and convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed for creamy garlic chicken with pasta:
chicken:
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2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thinly)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
garlic cream sauce:
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4–5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta:
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8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
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Salt for boiling water
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Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken with Pasta
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2: Prepare the chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken slices with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3: Make the creamy garlic sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — this adds flavor to the sauce.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4: Combine and serve
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss to coat everything in the creamy garlic sauce.
Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil.
Tips for the Best Chicken with Pasta
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Slice the chicken thinly to ensure quick and even cooking.
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Don’t overcook the garlic. Burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter.
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Reserve a bit of pasta water. You can add a few tablespoons to loosen the sauce if needed.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture — pre-grated often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as well.
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Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to make it even heartier.
Variations and Substitutions
This creamy garlic chicken with pasta recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few ways to mix it up:
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Low-carb version: Serve the creamy garlic chicken over zucchini noodles or steamed broccoli instead of pasta.
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Add greens: Toss in fresh baby spinach just before serving for a pop of color and nutrition.
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Swap proteins: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
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Use different pasta: While fettuccine and penne work great, try rigatoni, linguine, or even spaghetti for a twist.
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
Freezing tip: Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and may not thicken as much. You can combine milk with a bit of cream cheese or a roux (butter + flour) to help.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine, linguine, and penne are top choices because they hold the sauce well. However, any pasta you have on hand will do.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently, but the red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat. Omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Creamy garlic chicken with pasta is one of those timeless dishes that’s as impressive as it is comforting. With its velvety sauce, juicy chicken, and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests.
If you’re searching for a reliable chicken with pasta recipe that delivers on flavor without fuss, look no further — this is the one.
