Go Back
Authentic smartphone photo of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta features al dente penne, pan-seared chicken with charred edges, and a glossy ivory garlic cream sauce. A restaurant-quality 30-minute dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin for Later
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 745
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Recipe
  • 16 oz Penne Pasta 450g, cooked al dente
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast 450g, sliced into thick strips
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream 475ml, room temperature
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese 90g, freshly grated
  • 6 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter 30g
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil 30ml
  • 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes for garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Large Skillet For chicken and sauce
  • 1 Whisk For smooth sauce

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne pasta for 8-9 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear for 4 minutes per side until golden-brown edges appear. Remove and set aside.
  3. Melt butter in the same skillet. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Whisk in grated parmesan cheese. Add pasta and chicken back to the pan. Toss to coat, adding pasta water if needed to reach a glossy consistency.
  5. Top with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Always use freshly grated parmesan for a smooth sauce texture.
Reserve pasta water to help the sauce emulsify and stick to the penne.