A rich and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta made in one pan. Loaded with flavor, ready in under 40 minutes, and perfect for comforting weeknight dinners.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Optional: red pepper flakes, spinach, mushrooms
Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet, heat oil and butter. Sauté chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Add broth and cream, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan until melted. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.
Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss until coated.
Garnish and serve warm.
Add cooked vegetables for extra nutrients.
Store leftovers for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For extra richness, add 1 tbsp cream cheese to the sauce.