Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Cozy Dinner Favorite
There’s just something so comforting about the aroma of garlic and parmesan filling the kitchen, don’t you think? This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate cozy dinner that hugs you from the inside out. I love how tender chicken pieces and silky pasta get coated in a dreamy, cheesy sauce — it’s like the edible equivalent of your favorite warm blanket on a chilly evening. Plus, it all comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero when you want that home-cooked feel without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will sneak its way onto your regular dinner rotation faster than you can say “more parmesan, please!”
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 12 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain it, but reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water — it’s pure gold for loosening the sauce later if needed.
Step 2:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3:
Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter, then toss in the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and just starting to turn golden—watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Step 4:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5:
Turn off the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and silky smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and get that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 6:
Add the cooked chicken and pasta directly into the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—now you’re ready to serve!
Variations & Tips
- Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp or mushrooms for a seafood or vegetarian twist.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that wakes up the flavors.
- Mix in baby spinach or peas during the last minute of sauce cooking for a pop of color and nutrition.
- Use freshly shredded Parmesan for the best melt and flavor; pre-grated can sometimes be chalky.
- If your sauce breaks or looks grainy, a splash of milk and gentle heat helps bring it back together.
- Want extra garlicky? Roast the garlic beforehand for a mellow, sweet twist on the flavor.
How I Like to Serve It
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta shines with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies on the side. When it’s chilly outside, I love pairing it with warm crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Perfect for casual dinners, date nights at home, or when you need a little taste of comfort after a busy day.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
- If you want to save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—just toss it in at the end to warm through.
Closing: This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta hits all the cozy, cheesy notes that make a weeknight feel like a special occasion—and it’s always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!