Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta fills the kitchen with comforting aromas and brings a rich, satisfying flavor to the table. Tender chicken breast cooks perfectly in a fragrant blend of Italian seasoning and paprika then combines with pasta simmered in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce for a full meal in one pan.

I first made this when craving something hearty but fuss free after a long day. It quickly became a go to recipe when I want a comforting meal that impresses without hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients List

• Avocado oil: provides a high smoke point perfect for searing chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: for tenderness and protein, select plump pieces without discoloration
• Italian seasoning: blends herbaceous notes essential for that classic flavor, use fresh or quality store bought
• Paprika: adds gentle smoky warmth, choose sweet or smoked depending on your preference
• Salt and pepper: to enhance all flavors, freshly ground pepper is best
• Unsalted butter: for richness in the sauce, so you can control the salt balance
• Jumbo yellow onion: brings natural sweetness and texture, pick firm onions free from spots
• Garlic cloves: offer that indispensable deep aromatic base, choose firm bulbs with tight skins
• Dry penne pasta: holds sauce beautifully without becoming mushy; select good quality pasta made from durum wheat
• Chicken broth: for depth and moisture, homemade or low sodium store bought both work well
• Finely grated parmesan cheese: melts smoothly and creates that signature nutty flavor
• Heavy cream: adds silkiness to the sauce, for a lighter option substitute half and half
• Chopped parsley: freshens each bite and adds color, pick bright green leaves with no wilting

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Chicken Seasoning:

In a small bowl, combine italian seasoning paprika salt and pepper. Pat chicken dry before rubbing evenly with the mixture on both sides. This helps the chicken develop a flavorful crust.

Cook Chicken:

Heat a large pan over medium heat and add avocado oil. Once hot, place chicken in the pan and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165F. Remove the chicken and let it rest while you move on.

Sauté Aromatics:

Lower heat to medium low. Add avocado oil and butter to the same pan. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for about 3 minutes until onion softens and becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute for fragrant depth.

Deglaze and Cook Pasta:

Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping the browned bits off the bottom. Bring the broth to a boil. Add dry penne pasta and stir well to submerge the noodles. Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente.

Finish The Sauce:

Turn off the heat. Stir in finely grated parmesan cheese heavy cream and chopped parsley until the parmesan melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.

Combine and Serve:

Slice the rested chicken into strips and add to the pasta and sauce. Toss gently to combine everything evenly. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy deliciousness of this comforting dish.

The parmesan cheese really stands out as my favorite part it melts into the sauce creating a cozy indulgence that reminds me of family dinners where everyone asks for seconds.

Best Storage Practices

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This keeps the pasta tender and creamy without drying out.

Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat. For a vegetarian option, firm tofu or roasted mushrooms can take center stage while maintaining hearty texture. Using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth keeps it plant based. Half and half or whole milk can lighten the sauce without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Pairings

A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add color and nutrition to round out the meal.

This dish brings comforting flavors together in an easy but impressive meal. It is perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ What thickness should the chicken breasts be for even cooking?

Try to use chicken breasts of even thickness or pound them lightly if needed so they cook uniformly and stay juicy.

→ Can I substitute penne with other pasta types?

Yes, rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini work well as they hold the creamy sauce nicely.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thin?

Cook the sauce on low heat after adding cream and parmesan to gently thicken, stirring frequently to avoid separation.

→ Is there a way to add vegetables without overpowering flavors?

Adding spinach or mushrooms near the end of cooking adds nutrients and complements the creaminess without masking the main flavors.

→ What is the best way to ensure chicken is fully cooked but not dry?

Cook chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let it rest before slicing to retain juices.