Go Back
Creamy garlic chicken pasta with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting dinner made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful garlic cream sauce. This easy family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large Pot

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the sliced chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  6. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling the sauce.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained fettuccine and toss gently until everything is coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
  9. Taste and adjust the salt and black pepper. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Recipe Tips:
  • For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese.
  • Avoid boiling the cream sauce after adding the Parmesan to keep it smooth and creamy.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete family dinner.