Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta | Comfort Food Made Easy
Are you looking for a delicious dinner that feels fancy but is super easy to make? This creamy garlic chicken pasta is exactly what you need. It’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. And the best part? You can make it in just one pan! Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make this creamy pasta dish step-by-step, what tools you need, and even how to store leftovers. We’ve also included nutrition facts and helpful links for more inspiration.
Try our Easy One Pan Meals for more simple dinner ideas
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. You only need basic kitchen tools and simple ingredients. Second, it’s flavorful and creamy without being too heavy. Third, it’s perfect for meal prep, date night, or weeknight dinner.
Plus, the creamy garlic sauce blends beautifully with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. What’s not to love?
Learn how to make pasta from scratch (Simply Recipes)
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make the ultimate creamy garlic chicken pasta:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced thin)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for color)
- For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) fettuccine or penne
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
Kitchen Equipment Required
To make this dish, you’ll need the following:
- A large skillet or nonstick pan
- Medium pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Grater for cheese
- Measuring cups and spoons
Want to go dairy-free? Here’s a helpful guide on cream substitutes (Bon Appétit)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add it to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Garlic Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat well in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle more cheese or herbs on top if you like.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Use fresh garlic: The flavor is stronger and more fragrant.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Thin slices cook quickly, so keep an eye on them.
- Save some pasta water: It helps to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and tastes fresher than pre-grated cheese.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Store the creamy garlic chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to keep it from drying out. Use the microwave or reheat in a pan over low heat.
Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce can separate after thawing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here’s what to avoid:
- Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt smoothly due to anti-caking agents.
- Adding garlic too early: It can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Overcrowding the pan: This can make the chicken steam instead of sear.
- Skipping seasoning: Taste as you go!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~580 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Note: These values are estimated and can vary depending on ingredients used.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
This rich dish pairs well with light sides:
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread or toasted baguette
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- Check out our Top 10 Summer Salads for great pairing ideas!
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic chicken pasta is the perfect mix of easy and elegant. With simple steps, everyday ingredients, and loads of flavor, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just craving a comforting meal, this one has it all.
So go ahead, grab that skillet and give it a try tonight. You won’t regret it!
