If you are craving a dish that combines tender chicken, silky sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in one harmonious bowl, you are in for a treat with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a celebration of rich flavors and indulgent textures that come together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. The garlic-infused cream sauce wraps the chicken and pasta in a luscious embrace, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness. This recipe not only satisfies comfort food cravings but does so with a touch of elegant simplicity that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to creating that irresistible Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the silky cream that makes the sauce divine to the fresh parsley that adds a refreshing finish.

10.5 oz (300 g) pasta: Choose your favorite type, like penne or fettuccine, for perfect sauce absorption and satisfying bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps in browning the chicken beautifully.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances the sauce’s creaminess and deepens the flavor.
1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces: Tender protein that soaks up the garlicky, creamy goodness.
1 medium shallot, finely diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and delicate onion flavor to balance the dish.
4 garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient that infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and taste.
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevate the sauce with earthy, fragrant notes.
1/3 cup (75 ml) dry white wine: Adds depth and a slight tang, perfectly balancing the cream.
1 cup (200 ml) heavy cream: Creates that luscious, velvety texture that defines this creamy pasta dish.
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan: Brings savory, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
A handful of fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together in perfect harmony.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking your pasta in generously salted boiling water according to the package instructions until just al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining — this little trick will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later on and make sure every strand is luxuriously coated.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking them for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden on all sides and cooked through. This step locks in moisture while giving you that beautiful golden crust that adds texture to the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Step 3: Build the Aromatics

Once the chicken is done, toss in the finely diced shallot and sauté for about a minute until it softens. Add the minced garlic next, cooking for just 30 seconds to release its fragrant oils without turning bitter. This garlic-forward base is the heart of the sauce and sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Wine

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir it into the mixture. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits—that’s where a lot of flavor hides! Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the aroma and complexity of the sauce.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Then, add the cooked pasta directly into the pan and toss everything together. Use the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick—this step guarantees the perfect coating for every bite.

Step 6: Finish With Parmesan and Parsley

Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese adds cheesy richness and helps thicken the sauce even further, while parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, herbal notes, making your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe irresistibly delicious and visually inviting.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Serving this dish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper adds an extra layer of flavor and a rustic charm. A few fresh parsley leaves scattered on top will bring a lovely color contrast and a burst of freshness that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair the creamy chicken pasta with crisp green salads, such as a peppery arugula or a tangy Caesar salad, to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are also excellent sides to soak up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elevated presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls topped with a lemon wedge to add a zingy brightness when squeezed over. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chili flakes for an exciting crunch or subtle heat, giving your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe a gourmet twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe stores very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor, making your next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

Although fresh is best, you can freeze the pasta in a suitable container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that the cream sauce might separate slightly when thawed, but gentle reheating with a splash of cream or milk can revive its creamy texture beautifully.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or cream to regain that silky sauce consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power which can dry out the chicken—slow and steady is the way to go for that perfect leftover experience.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne or fettuccine work wonderfully, feel free to use any pasta you enjoy, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or even shell pasta, as they all soak up the creamy sauce differently but deliciously.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese. Keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly but remain indulgent and tasty.

What can I use instead of white wine?

If you prefer to skip the alcohol, chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice mixed with broth works well to deglaze the pan and add that needed acidity to the sauce without compromising on flavor.

How do I ensure the chicken stays tender in the pasta?

Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cooking over medium heat without overcrowding the pan helps it cook evenly and retain juices, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy in this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?

You can prep all ingredients ahead of time, including chopping shallots and garlic and cutting the chicken. Cook the pasta just before serving and gently reheat the sauce. This strategy helps you enjoy the party while serving a fresh, flavorful dish.

Final Thoughts

There is something wonderfully comforting and satisfying about a bowl of creamy garlic chicken pasta that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is a fail-proof way to bring delicious flavor and ease to your kitchen, impressing friends and family alike. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it becomes a fast favorite—so go ahead and give it a whirl, you’ll love every creamy, garlicky bite.