If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a plate, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful meal combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with a luscious, garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta. It’s comfort food elevated with fresh herbs, a hint of spice, and the rich indulgence of cream and cheese. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that tastes thoughtfully luxurious without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe plays a starring role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the golden-seared chicken breasts to the vibrant fresh parsley garnish, these essentials come together to create a harmonious dish that’s both easy and satisfying.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein to keep things hearty and wholesome.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that golden, crispy sear on the chicken without weighing it down.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors in both chicken and pasta.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the chicken with subtle garlic goodness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Herbal notes that add a fragrant, savory touch.
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice: A sturdy vessel to soak up all the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Salt, for the pasta water: To season the pasta right from the start.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for your creamy sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic delivers that punch of aromatic flavor that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to the luscious, velvety texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty depth that defines the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances and enhances the sauce flavors perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right kick without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like it spicy.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens and freshens the finished plate with a pop of green color.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine or preferred pasta and cook until just al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. The slight bite in the pasta gives the best texture when mixed with the creamy sauce—it ensures your dish never feels mushy but delightfully tender. Once cooked, be sure to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid will help marry the sauce and pasta beautifully.
Step 2: Pan-Sear the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of dried thyme or Italian seasoning. When the skillet is hot, add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. This creates a gorgeous golden crust that locks in juices and flavor. Remove the chicken to rest for a few minutes—this step is key for juicy, tender slices.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Be mindful not to let it burn because a bitter garlic note can dull the sauce’s richness. Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, black pepper, and that optional kick of red pepper flakes. Keep stirring for 3 to 4 minutes as the sauce thickens into a silky, decadent coating.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together so each strand is luxuriously covered. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your ideal consistency. Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and plate over the pasta for an irresistibly inviting presentation. The moment just before garnishing is the moment you know this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe is about to deliver a spectacular meal.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley instantly brightens the dish, adding a splash of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sauce. For cheese lovers, an extra grating of Parmesan on top never hurts—it adds a sharp, salty finish that ties all the flavors perfectly together.
Side Dishes
Pair this decadent pasta with something light and crisp like a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can also be a welcome companion, perfect for mopping up any remaining creamy sauce and making your plate disappear faster.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, serve the pasta in shallow bowls topped with the sliced chicken fanned out decoratively. Add a small drizzle of olive oil and perhaps a few cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness and color. If you like a little extra luxury, a few toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top create a lovely crunch to contrast the creamy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftovers of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is rich and creamy, it might thicken in the fridge, so a quick stir or gentle reheating with a splash of cream or milk helps bring it back to life.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately from the pasta and sauce for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat gently to preserve flavors and texture. Freezing the combined pasta and sauce is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over low heat, stirring often. Adding a little bit of milk, cream, or pasta water will help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the sauce silky and smooth, as uneven heating can cause it to split.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional and holds the sauce beautifully, penne, linguine, or even a wider noodle like pappardelle would work wonderfully too. Just pick your favorite pasta shape that you enjoy.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream for the sauce?
If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. To keep some of the creaminess, you might add a bit of cream cheese or Greek yogurt off heat at the end for tang and body.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, ensure the chicken is opaque throughout with no pink in the center when sliced.
Can I make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers. You might also want to add some toasted nuts or chickpeas for protein and texture.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy Parmesan sauce nicely. Their acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate between bites.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals when you want comfort and elegance on the same plate. The combination of savory chicken, garlicky sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is pure magic. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this dish will surely bring smiles all around the table. So grab those ingredients and start cooking—you’re about to create something truly unforgettable!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken is a rich and indulgent dish combining perfectly cooked fettuccine tossed in a velvety garlic parmesan sauce, topped with juicy, seasoned chicken breasts pan-seared to golden perfection. A comforting and elegant meal ready in under 40 minutes, ideal for a satisfying family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Salt, for the pasta water
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring and cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the creamy garlic Parmesan pasta onto serving plates. Top each plate with slices of the pan-seared chicken breast. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy this rich, flavorful, and comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as it helps blend and thicken the sauce perfectly.
- Resting the chicken before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting in the sauce.
