Can I make garlic parmesan chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time, then prepare the sauce fresh and combine everything just before serving for the best texture.

What type of pasta works best for garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best since their ridges hold the creamy garlic parmesan sauce, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used. Simply cut it into bite-sized pieces and stir it into the sauce at the end to heat through.

How do I make garlic parmesan chicken pasta lighter?

To make it lighter, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, reduce the amount of cheese slightly, and add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for more balance.

Can I make garlic parmesan chicken pasta gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour in the sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry.

How long does garlic parmesan chicken pasta last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I freeze garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Yes, but note that creamy sauces may separate slightly after freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, and reheat slowly while stirring.

What side dishes go best with garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are classic sides that pair perfectly with this creamy pasta dish.

Can I add extra protein to this recipe?

Yes, you can add crispy bacon, shrimp, or Italian sausage for extra protein and flavor variations.

Is garlic parmesan chicken pasta similar to Alfredo?

Yes, it’s similar to Alfredo but with a stronger garlic flavor and the addition of both parmesan and mozzarella for extra richness.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta - 30 Minutes Dinner

Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Description

Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta with tender chicken, penne pasta, and a cheesy garlic cream sauce. A quick 30-minute comfort food dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Add pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Fold in the cooked chicken.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to boost nutrition.
Serve immediately for best texture, as the sauce thickens on standing.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories: 645 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 620 mg
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 38 g
Cholesterol: 140 mg