Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan): The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (One-Pan): A Simple, Comforting Classic

When life calls for something simple yet deeply satisfying, this one-pan garlic Parmesan chicken pasta checks every box. Creamy sauce, juicy chicken, rich Parmesan, and garlic come together in one skillet, creating a comforting, no-fuss dish that’s bound to become a favorite. Imagine a warm bowl of pasta, drenched in creamy sauce, with every bite carrying that rich garlic and Parmesan flavor. No complicated steps, no extra dishes—just an easy, flavorful meal.

Let’s get cooking!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (One-Pan)

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Chicken breasts 1 lb, diced

Olive oil 2 tablespoons

Garlic, minced 4 cloves

Chicken broth 2 cups

Heavy cream 1 cup

Pasta 8 oz (any short shape)

Parmesan, grated 1 cup

Salt To taste

Black pepper To taste

Fresh parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish

Instructions

1. Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet. Once it shimmers, add diced chicken. Let each piece brown for a few minutes on each side, locking in juices. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks, so each bite has depth.

    2. Once chicken turns golden, toss in minced garlic. Stir gently until garlic releases that irresistible aroma. This step is key—it makes the dish fragrant, pulling all flavors together.

      3. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream over browned chicken. Stir until creamy base forms. When it reaches a gentle simmer, add uncooked pasta. Make sure each piece gets soaked into the creamy mix.

        4. Cover skillet, letting pasta cook until it reaches tender perfection. Stir occasionally, so pasta cooks evenly. If sauce thickens too much, a splash of broth or water loosens it.

          5. When pasta feels tender and sauce turns creamy, stir in grated Parmesan. Cheese melts into sauce, adding that signature garlic Parmesan flavor. Taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. If you like a little extra richness, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan works wonders.

            Ingredients

            Ingredient Amount
            Chicken breasts 1 lb, diced
            Olive oil 2 tablespoons
            Garlic, minced 4 cloves
            Chicken broth 2 cups
            Heavy cream 1 cup
            Pasta 8 oz (any short shape)
            Parmesan, grated 1 cup
            Salt To taste
            Black pepper To taste
            Fresh parsley, chopped Optional, for garnish

            Cooking Time

            • Preparation: 10 minutes
            • Cooking: 20-25 minutes
            • Total: 30-35 minutes

            Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

            Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet. Once it shimmers, add diced chicken. Let each piece brown for a few minutes on each side, locking in juices. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks, so each bite has depth.

             

            garlic parmesan chicken pasta

            Once chicken turns golden, toss in minced garlic. Stir gently until garlic releases that irresistible aroma. This step is key—it makes the dish fragrant, pulling all flavors together.

             

            garlic parmesan chicken pasta

            Pour chicken broth and heavy cream over browned chicken. Stir until creamy base forms. When it reaches a gentle simmer, add uncooked pasta. Make sure each piece gets soaked into the creamy mix.

            garlic parmesan chicken pasta

            Cover skillet, letting pasta cook until it reaches tender perfection. Stir occasionally, so pasta cooks evenly. If sauce thickens too much, a splash of broth or water loosens it.

            When pasta feels tender and sauce turns creamy, stir in grated Parmesan. Cheese melts into sauce, adding that signature garlic Parmesan flavor. Taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. If you like a little extra richness, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan works wonders.

            garlic parmesan chicken pastagarlic parmesan chicken pasta

            Serving Tips

            Spoon garlic Parmesan chicken pasta into bowls. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. For a bolder garlic flavor, a light drizzle of garlic-infused oil works beautifully over top.

            Pair this dish with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a balanced meal. Garlic bread complements the creamy, garlicky goodness perfectly.

            Tips for Success

            • Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. For a richer flavor, try boneless thighs.
            • Pasta Types: Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or bowties work best, holding sauce well. Feel free to use what you have on hand.
            • Cheese Options: Freshly grated Parmesan melts best here. Pre-grated cheese works in a pinch but won’t blend as smoothly.
            • Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil brings brightness. Add a small amount right before serving.

            Storage

            Any leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. A splash of cream or broth revives the sauce’s creamy texture.

            Final Thoughts

            Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta offers comfort without hassle. It’s creamy, garlicky, and satisfying with minimal effort. A one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy nights—because sometimes, simple meals bring the most joy. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!

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