Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and simple enough for any weeknight, this Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe has got you covered. Imagine tender, garlic-kissed chicken swimming in a luscious parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta—it all comes together so fast, yet tastes like you’ve spent ages in the kitchen. This recipe meets that sweet spot where comfort food meets elegance, making it an instant favorite for busy cooks and food lovers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in this Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe starts with straightforward, accessible ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from the savory chicken that provides protein and texture, to the garlic and parmesan which bring layers of rich flavor. Together, these elements create a dish that’s both satisfying and deliciously balanced.

• 8 ounces uncooked pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work beautifully;
• 2 chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise): Thinner pieces cook evenly and stay juicy;
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, mellow garlic flavor to the chicken;
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every bite;
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Creates a perfect sear on the chicken;
• 2 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and helps form the creamy sauce;
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic amplifies the aroma and taste;
• 1/2 tablespoon flour: Thickens the sauce for a velvety texture;
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine: Builds depth in the sauce;
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice: A bright note to balance the creaminess;
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: The heart of the luscious sauce;
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding salty, nutty goodness.

How to Make Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key for flavorful pasta. Cook your chosen pasta al dente according to the package instructions, making sure it retains a slight bite. This ensures your noodles don’t end up mushy once mixed with the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to form four thinner pieces. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Then, sprinkle each piece with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, giving the chicken a simple but tasty seasoning boost that complements the garlic sauce later on.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Let the pan warm for a couple of minutes before adding the chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Flavorful Garlic Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and flour, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds. This step cooks out the raw flour taste while infusing the sauce with garlicky goodness, creating a perfect base for the creamy sauce to come.

Step 5: Deglaze and Enhance the Sauce

Next, whisk in the chicken broth (or dry white wine if you prefer) and lemon juice, scraping the skillet’s bottom with your spoon to lift any flavorful brown bits left from the chicken. Let the sauce bubble gently for about a minute—this deepens the flavor and blends everything together.

Step 6: Add Cream and Thicken the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and reduce the heat slightly to prevent excessive bubbling. Let the sauce cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a smooth, luscious consistency. This creamy component is what makes the dish so irresistibly decadent.

Step 7: Prepare the Chicken for the Sauce

While the sauce is thickening, chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to combine with the pasta and ensures every forkful has the perfect balance of chicken and sauce.

Step 8: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. This step enriches the sauce with a salty, nutty punch, creating the classic flavor profile you expect from a great garlic chicken pasta dish.

Step 9: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked, drained pasta and chopped chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles and chicken are generously coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels a bit thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can loosen it up perfectly. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe even more, try topping it with freshly chopped parsley or basil. A sprinkling of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick if you love some heat. Don’t forget an extra dusting of parmesan cheese right before serving to keep that cheesy, creamy vibe going strong.

Side Dishes

This pasta is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are always welcome and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unforgettable dinner presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and top with a lemon wedge on the side—this offers diners a fresh squeeze of brightness to complement the creaminess. Alternatively, layering the pasta in a beautiful casserole dish with some extra parmesan baked on top can turn this into a stunning, shareable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from this Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, the pasta will stay good for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the sauce may thicken as it chills.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not always ideal, as cream-based sauces can separate upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, package the pasta in a freezer-safe container without the parmesan cheese and re-add it when reheating. Use within 1 month for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating helps restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Be patient, as overheating can cause the sauce to split.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe works great with traditional long pasta shapes, short pasta like penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce well. Choose whatever you have on hand or prefer for texture and presentation.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken?

Definitely. If you have pre-cooked chicken, just skip the searing step and add your chopped chicken directly to the sauce in Step 9. This can save time and still yield delicious results.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions to boost nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables after cooking the chicken and before making the sauce to incorporate them seamlessly.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy garlic sauce beautifully. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the chicken and sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a meal that comes together quickly yet tastes like a special occasion. This Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is exactly that—simple to make with ingredients you likely have on hand, but rich enough to satisfy every craving. I can’t wait for you to try it and share your own twist with friends and family. Trust me, this one will become your go-to weeknight dinner in no time!

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