Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a mouth-watering creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe? This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic sauce that will leave you and your guests wanting more. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in and explore how to make this delectable dish step by step!

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?
Creamy garlic chicken pasta is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. The combination of garlic, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates a burst of flavors that are sure to please your palate.
Ingredients List for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
To make this delicious creamy garlic chicken pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10 ounces dry pasta (any kind you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or 16 ounces)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by trying out some of these substitutions and variations:
- Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or any other type of pasta you prefer.
- Chicken: Substitute with boneless skinless chicken thighs, turkey, or even shrimp.
- Heavy Cream: Replace with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheese profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this creamy garlic chicken pasta is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prep Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a generous amount of salt and cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté Garlic and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes and chopped spinach (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes and spinach are soft and wilted.
5. Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Whisk the mixture until it is fully incorporated and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything
Slice the cooked chicken into thin slices or cubes. Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the cream sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
How to Cook Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking creamy garlic chicken pasta involves a few simple steps, but following them precisely ensures a delicious result. Here’s a detailed guide to help you:
- Boil the Pasta: Start with boiling a large pot of water. Make sure to add enough salt to the water to enhance the pasta's flavor. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente.
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and season them thoroughly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced tomatoes and chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes and spinach are soft and wilted.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture until it is fully combined and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips or cubes. Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, your creamy garlic chicken pasta is ready to be served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your creamy garlic chicken pasta turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Under-seasoning the Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken well to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Burning the Garlic: Cook the garlic just until it’s fragrant; burnt garlic can add a bitter taste to the sauce.
- Curdling the Cream: Lower the heat when adding the cream to avoid curdling. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your creamy garlic chicken pasta can enhance the dining experience. Here are some tips:
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
When serving creamy garlic chicken pasta, consider these ideas to make it more appealing:
- Family Style: Serve the pasta in a large serving bowl, allowing guests to help themselves.
- Individual Portions: Plate the pasta individually, ensuring each plate has a good mix of pasta, chicken, and sauce.
- Side Dishes: Accompany the pasta with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Enhance the visual appeal of your dish with these presentation ideas:
- Herb Garnish: Top the pasta with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil.
- Cheese Shavings: Add a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top for a professional touch.
- Color Contrast: Use colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers to add visual interest.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips
To perfect your creamy garlic chicken pasta, consider these additional tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, tomatoes, and spinach will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the cream and cheese to melt slowly over low heat for a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Store the cooked chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in the refrigerator and reheat before combining.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While you can freeze the pasta, the cream sauce may change in texture upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, consider making the sauce fresh when reheating.
Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk combined with a little butter, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
Q: How can I make the dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Creating a delicious and creamy garlic chicken pasta at home is easier than you think. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to prepare a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors, creamy texture, and delightful aroma of this fantastic pasta dish. Happy cooking!
PrintCreamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Indulge in a mouthwatering creamy garlic chicken pasta recipe featuring tender chicken breast seasoned with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. This dish combines flavorful diced tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich garlic cream sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, perfect for any pasta lover. Serve this quick and easy meal for a satisfying dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dry pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breast with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the chopped spinach (if using) and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
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