Garlicky Saucy Pasta That Brings Everyone to the Table

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This garlicky saucy pasta is the definition of comfort food done right. With perfectly seared golden chicken breasts nestled into a creamy, garlic-infused sauce, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Tossed with al dente pasta and juicy tomatoes, it’s a crave-worthy meal that strikes the perfect balance between rich, savory, and fresh.

The creamy sauce is loaded with garlic, kissed with a touch of spice, and made velvety smooth with a hint of cream and cheese—coating each strand of pasta in pure flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or looking to impress dinner guests, this one-skillet pasta dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Saucy Pasta

• One-skillet magic: Everything cooks in one pan for easy prep and even easier cleanup.
• Bold garlic flavor: Perfect for garlic lovers, without being overpowering.
• Juicy, golden chicken: Adds protein and makes it a complete, satisfying meal.
• Creamy, cheesy, dreamy sauce: Ties everything together with rich texture and taste.
• Quick and easy: On the table in under 40 minutes—weeknight-friendly!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most of this dish, prep efficiently with the right tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan – A deep, wide skillet helps develop flavor and accommodates all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Tongs – Ideal for turning chicken and tossing pasta evenly in the sauce.
• Sharp chef’s knife – Essential for slicing chicken and chopping garlic and tomatoes precisely.
• Microplane or garlic press – Gets your garlic super fine, intensifying the flavor throughout the sauce.
• Measuring cups/spoons – Ensures you get the cream and seasonings just right for a balanced sauce.

Each tool plays a role in helping you build layers of flavor and texture without overcomplicating the process.

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Preparation Tips

Start by prepping all your ingredients before heating the skillet—this dish comes together quickly once cooking begins. Use room-temperature chicken for even cooking and a golden crust. Let your garlic cook slowly to release its natural sweetness without burning. When simmering the sauce, allow it to thicken slightly before adding pasta to ensure it clings well. Lastly, don’t skip the final toss in the sauce—this step helps the flavors soak into the pasta and gives the whole dish a cohesive, luscious finish.

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Ingredients for this Garlicky Saucy Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half horizontally for thinner cutlets)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the spices in well on both sides.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, then stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.

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Step 5: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the sauce starts to thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.

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Step 6: Add Parmesan and Tomatoes

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the sauce. Add the diced tomato and simmer for another 2–3 minutes to soften.

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Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing well to coat in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.

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Step 8: Finish with Chicken and Garnish

Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately while hot and saucy.

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Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—it makes a noticeable difference in the creaminess of the sauce. If you like a touch of tang, you can add a small squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish just before serving. Don’t skip the resting step after cooking the chicken; it helps retain all those flavorful juices.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: Thin chicken cutlets cook quickly. Keep a close eye to avoid drying them out.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast and can turn bitter if overdone. Sauté just until fragrant.
• Over-thickening the sauce: The sauce should lightly coat the back of a spoon—not too thick or too runny. Use pasta water as needed.
• Skipping the pasta water: That starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and binds it to the pasta—don’t forget to save some before draining!
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt well. Always go for block cheese.

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Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid freezing, as cream sauces tend to separate and lose their smooth texture after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~610 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 510mg
• Cholesterol: 115mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the garlic.

Can I make this pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, plant-based version.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and check the labels on your broth and seasonings.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, then reheat with sauce before serving.

How can I add more vegetables?

Stir in baby spinach, bell peppers, or peas when simmering the sauce for added nutrition and color.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti and linguine are great, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni also work well.

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Conclusion

This garlicky saucy pasta with chicken isn’t just a dinner—it’s the kind of dish that makes you pause and savor. It’s rich, flavorful, and full of texture, making it perfect for a weeknight indulgence or an effortless weekend crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to it, one creamy, garlicky bite at a time.

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