Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, garlicky, and loaded with tender chicken and pasta, this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of comfort food that wins hearts instantly. The richness of the Parmesan cheese pairs perfectly with a silky garlic cream sauce, all wrapped around golden seared chicken and perfectly cooked penne. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this pasta delivers flavor and satisfaction without requiring much time in the kitchen. The combination of fresh spinach, creamy sauce, and seasoned chicken creates a balanced bite in every forkful. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and makes for excellent leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• It’s packed with flavor from garlic, cheese, and seared chicken.
• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes.
• Uses common pantry staples.
• Creamy but not heavy, with a touch of freshness from spinach.
• Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, have these essentials ready:

• Large skillet – Crucial for browning the chicken evenly and later bringing the sauce together.
• Large pot – For boiling the pasta to al dente.
• Colander – Needed to drain pasta efficiently without overcooking.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – For prepping chicken and fresh ingredients.
• Tongs or spatula – Helps turn chicken for even searing and mixing pasta.
• Measuring cups & spoons – Ensures perfect sauce consistency and flavor balance.

Using the right tools streamlines the cooking process, prevents mess, and delivers better texture and flavor.

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Preparation Tips

Cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Season it well before searing—this builds the first layer of flavor. Don’t rush the browning process; golden crust equals more flavor. Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce. When making the sauce, add the cheese gradually and stir continuously to avoid clumping. Always reserve some pasta water—it helps loosen and emulsify the sauce if needed.

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Ingredients for this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
• Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan for topping (optional)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve about half a cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.

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Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is boiling, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with a pinch of salt, extra pepper, and more Italian seasoning if desired. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

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Step 5: Toss in Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

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Step 6: Add Spinach and Let It Wilt

Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir gently until it wilts into the sauce. This takes just about 1–2 minutes. Make sure everything is heated through.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat. Serve the pasta in bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

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Notes

For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than the pre-shredded kind—it melts better and brings a deeper cheesy richness. Be generous with the garlic; it’s the soul of the sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the cream slightly longer before adding cheese. This recipe can also be adjusted with different add-ins like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a splash of white wine in the sauce.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: It can dry out quickly. Remove as soon as it’s golden and cooked through.
• Skipping pasta water: Don’t forget to reserve some—it’s a secret weapon for creamy sauces.
• Using pre-grated cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• High heat for sauce: Keep it at a gentle simmer to avoid splitting the cream.
• Adding spinach too early: It wilts fast, so toss it in right before serving.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to bring back the creaminess. This pasta does not freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce—it may separate upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~630 kcal
• Protein: 39g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and slightly less rich. You may need to simmer it longer to thicken.

Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely. Shrimp, sausage, or even rotisserie chicken work well.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

What if I don’t have spinach?

You can skip it or replace it with kale, arugula, or steamed broccoli.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a satisfying alternative.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for best texture.

What type of Parmesan should I use?

Go for real Parmigiano-Reggiano if possible—its nutty flavor makes a big difference.

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Conclusion

Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that turns a regular evening into a cozy dinner experience. With its creamy sauce, garlicky depth, and satisfying chunks of chicken, it’s sure to be a regular on your menu rotation. Whether you’re making it for your family or guests, it’s an effortless way to deliver impressive flavor with minimal stress.

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