Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the perfect easy dinner recipe when you want something quick, filling, and full of flavor. Made with tender chicken, a rich garlic cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes and is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. If you’re looking for a simple homemade pasta recipe that tastes better than takeout, this one delivers every time.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs for extra flavor)1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon black pepper1 teaspoon garlic powder1/2 teaspoon paprika2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta & Sauce:

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work best)4 tablespoons butter5 cloves garlic, minced2 cups heavy cream1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)1/2 teaspoon black pepper1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Assembly:

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional but recommended)Extra Parmesan cheese for topping

The Galley Method:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta (10 minutes)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Save about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining—this is liquid gold for your sauce later.

Step 2: Season & Cook the Chicken (12–15 minutes)

Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce (10 minutes)

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t burn it).

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it thicken slightly for 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Bring It All Together (5 minutes)

Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until coated in that creamy sauce.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your perfect consistency.

Step 5: Serve Like a Pro

Plate it up hot, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Galley Pro Tips:

Don’t rush the garlic — burnt garlic will ruin the whole dish

Fresh Parmesan melts better — skip the pre-shredded stuff

Pasta water is your secret weapon — it makes the sauce silky

Chicken thighs = more flavor — breasts = leaner option

Keep the heat medium — high heat can break your cream sauce