What kind of pasta is best for garlic parmesan chicken?

Long pasta shapes like spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work best as they easily coat with the creamy sauce. Penne or rotini are also good choices for capturing the sauce in their ridges.

How do you keep garlic parmesan sauce from separating?

Use a heavy cream base and avoid overheating the sauce. Simmer gently and stir frequently to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the cream. Adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to the sauce can also help prevent separation.

Can I use milk instead of cream in garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Yes, you can use milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a creamier texture when using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of butter and a little extra parmesan cheese. You can also use half-and-half as a good compromise.

How can I make garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Substitute chicken breast for thighs to reduce fat. Use skim milk or light cream instead of heavy cream. Increase the amount of vegetables like broccoli or spinach. Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese.

What vegetables go well with garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Broccoli, spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and peas all pair well with garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

How long does garlic parmesan chicken pasta last in the refrigerator?

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Simple Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Is Your New Weeknight Favorite 2026

Simple Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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This is a luxurious-tasting yet affordable weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce tossed with pasta. It comes together quickly using pantry staples for a reliably delicious and comforting meal.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 25min
Total Time: 35min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
6-8 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.
Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of the Italian seasoning.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 3 tbsp butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 60-90 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Stir in heavy cream, the remaining 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Reduce heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Return the cooked chicken and any juices to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything until well coated in the sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, black pepper, and fresh parsley.

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, grate Parmesan from a block rather than using pre-grated. Do not add cheese to a boiling sauce or it may become grainy. The starchy pasta water is key for adjusting sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 580
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 450
Fat: 30
Saturated Fat: 17
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 2
Protein: 32
Cholesterol: 165

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta/