What can I add to Garlic Chicken Pasta for more flavor?

Great question! Garlic Chicken Pasta is already packed with flavor, but there’s always room to level it up. Add sautéed mushrooms , a handful of sun-dried tomatoes , or even a dash of chili flakes for heat. A splash of white wine in the sauce also adds depth. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saving hack that still gives you juicy results. Just shred or cube the chicken and toss it into the sauce at the end to warm through. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when time is short but dinner still needs to impress.

How do I thicken the garlic sauce if it’s too watery?

If your sauce turns out too thin, don’t stress. Try simmering it longer to let the moisture reduce naturally. You can also add a bit more Parmesan cheese , or stir in a small spoonful of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry . Just go slow—thickening is all about balance.

Is Garlic Chicken Pasta freezer-friendly?

Technically yes, but it's not always ideal. The creamy sauce can separate a bit once frozen and reheated. However, if you do want to freeze it, store in airtight containers and reheat slowly on the stove with added cream to revive the texture.

Garlic Chicken Pasta – Irresistible Creamy Dinner in 30 Minutes

Description

This Garlic Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dinner recipe made with tender chicken, garlic, and parmesan tossed with pasta in a rich, garlicky sauce—ready in 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces penne pasta
1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Return the chicken to the pan, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding pasta water a little at a time if needed to thin the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add sautéed spinach, lemon zest, or mushrooms for variation.
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: garlic chicken pasta, creamy chicken pasta, parmesan chicken pasta, garlic butter pasta, easy chicken pasta