Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Tender bites of chicken, rich garlic cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in one comforting dish. This easy one-pot dinner is perfect for busy weeknights but satisfying enough for a cozy weekend meal.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make creamy garlic chicken pasta with simple pantry ingredients, and plenty of helpful tips to make it your own.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- One-pot convenience: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup.
- Rich, garlicky flavor: Creamy sauce with a bold garlic punch.
- Versatile: Works with different proteins, pasta shapes, or dairy options.
- Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids but flavorful enough for adults.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless. You can also use chicken thighs or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Pasta – Penne, fettuccine, or any short pasta work well. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic paste or roasted garlic can be used.
- Heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and velvety. Substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter or dairy-free options.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, cheesy depth. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes.
- Chicken broth – Enhances the flavor of the sauce. You can use vegetable broth if needed.
- Olive oil & butter – For cooking the chicken and building the sauce.
The full list of ingredients and quantities can be found in the recipe card below . . .
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Quick Overview
- Sear seasoned chicken in butter and olive oil.
- Remove chicken, then sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in broth and cream to make the sauce.
- Add pasta and simmer until tender.
- Stir in cheese, return chicken, and finish with parsley.
Step by Step Instructions for Making Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
1. Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In the same pan, lower the heat and add more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, be careful not to burn it.
3. Make the Sauce Base
Pour in the chicken broth and stir to loosen any browned bits from the pan. Add the heavy cream, stir, and bring to a light simmer.
4. Add the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta directly to the pan. Stir and let it simmer in the sauce, uncovered, until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth or water if the sauce reduces too quickly before the pasta is fully cooked.
5. Finish the Sauce
Once the pasta is al dente, lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and let everything warm through. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness. Serve hot and creamy straight from the pan.
Additions & Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Vegetables: Stir in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or sausage instead of chicken.
- Lighter Option: Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or cashew cream.
- Cheese Options: Add cream cheese for extra richness, or swap Parmesan with Asiago.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- Don’t overcook garlic – Burned garlic will turn the sauce bitter.
- Cook pasta in the sauce – This thickens the sauce naturally with starch and boosts flavor.
- Add liquid as needed – The pasta will absorb sauce as it cooks; a splash of broth or cream can loosen it up at the end.
How to Store Leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely before storing.
- In a Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In a Freezer: Not recommended due to the dairy based sauce separating during thawing.
How to Reheat Creamy Pasta
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of cream or broth.
- Microwave: Reheat in short bursts, stirring in between, and add a bit of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
- Add a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to elevate the meal.
- Top with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of basil pesto for flavor contrast.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
Recipe FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Add rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken during the final step to heat through.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use unsweetened coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
What pasta shapes work best?
Short pastas like penne, rotini, or bow tie hold sauce well. Fettuccine or linguine also work for a creamier feel.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and cook pasta separately. Combine just before serving.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild and creamy. Omit red pepper flakes for younger palates.
