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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. This easy weeknight dinner will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning used in 2 steps
  • kosher salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large shallot diced
  • 4-6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz dry pasta penne, corkscrew, or trottole, etc.
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • parsley for serving

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Grater
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by trimming any fat or grizzle off the chicken. Dice the chicken into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, sprinkle 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and a pinch of pepper over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
  2. In a large, deep sauté pan that can be fitted with a lid, heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once heated, add the seasoned chicken and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes.
  3. Add in the diced shallot and continue to sauté, stirring often. You want to see the shallots begin to soften as the chicken browns on all sides, which should take around 2 to 3 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium and add in 4-6 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds, just enough to toast the garlic without burning it.
  5. Pour in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and deglaze the pan by scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. This adds amazing flavor to your sauce!
  6. Next, add ½-1 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the broth to come to a light boil.
  7. Once the broth begins to bubble, add in 8 oz dry pasta and stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the broth.
  8. Cover the pan, lower the heat to medium-low, and cook for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the pasta is almost al-dente. Make sure to stir every 2 to 3 minutes, removing the lid quickly before replacing it.
  9. After the cooking time, remove the lid and add ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese and ½ cup heavy cream. Stir until the parmesan melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
  10. Finally, remove from the heat. Taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve with freshly minced parsley if desired!

Notes

  • Use the Right Pan: Select a heavy-bottomed large sauté pan or large stock pan that can be fitted with a lid to cook the Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta.
  • For the Pasta: Select a shape of pasta that is curved or has ridges, so it will hold onto the creamy sauce. Corkscrew, Cavatappi, Trottle, or Penne pasta are all good options.
  • Cream: Heavy cream, half-and-half, and whole milk all work, but the heavy cream results in the most luxurious sauce.
  • Storage: Allow pasta to cool slightly and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the pasta, place one serving in a heat-safe dish and add in a splash of chicken stock. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.