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If you’re searching for a comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and flavorful pasta all in one pot, you have to try this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe. This joyful meal is packed with bold garlic flavor, rich Parmesan, and melty mozzarella melted into every bite, making it a perfect weeknight supper that feels like a special treat. The magic of this recipe lies in how each ingredient comes together effortlessly to create a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and so easy to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential for creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color in your skillet meal. Each component plays its part—from the juicy chicken to the cheesy finish—to make your cooking experience straightforward and rewarding.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a savory base to cook the chicken and garlic, adding richness and preventing sticking.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced: The tender protein that soaks up the garlic and Parmesan flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and pasta.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that wonderful aromatic punch that garlic lovers adore.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture as the pasta cooks, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a creamy sauce base when combined with the broth and cheeses.
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked): Holds sauce well and provides that satisfying bite; rotini’s spirals catch more cheese!
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a subtle herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat that adds an extra layer of complexity if you like a little kick.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty goodness that melts into the sauce for unbeatable flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that stretchy, gooey texture you dream of in cheesy pasta dishes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color to finish off your skillet masterpiece.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s perfectly golden on the outside and fully cooked through. This gives the chicken a wonderful texture and locks in flavor. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside—trust me, this step ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic for That Irresistible Aroma
In the same skillet, add your freshly minced garlic and sauté for just one minute until it releases that heady fragrance. This quick garlic step infuses the base of your sauce with a deep, savory essence that will have your kitchen smelling incredible.
Step 3: Simmer the Pasta in a Creamy Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and milk, and stir in the uncooked pasta along with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and to help it cook evenly. The liquid will reduce and thicken slightly, resulting in a wonderfully creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.
Step 4: Bring it All Together with Cheese and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until all the cheese melts into a smooth, luscious sauce. This is the moment the dish turns gloriously cheesy and creamy, wrapping the chicken and pasta in a luscious blanket of flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm
Finish off by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top to add a bright, fresh contrast both in flavor and color. Serve your skillet straight from the pan while it’s warm, gooey, and utterly comforting.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh parsley, consider adding a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper to perk up each bite. If you love a bit of zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the cheesy richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This skillet is filling on its own, but you can elevate your meal with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, garlic bread for extra indulgence, or lightly steamed broccoli that adds color and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic feel. Alternatively, plate it in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and colorful parsley garnish. For a family-style touch, place a small bowl of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped herbs on the side so everyone can customize their plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen after resting, making leftovers just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, avoid adding fresh parsley—they’re best added fresh after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating and to keep all that cheesy goodness smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini are great because they hold sauce well, but you can swap in fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni depending on what you have. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version. You might want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully meat-free.
Can I use shredded chicken instead of diced chicken breast?
You can! If you have leftover shredded chicken, it works perfectly and can be added in the final step just like the diced chicken. It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers.
What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce seems runny after cooking, stir in a little extra Parmesan cheese off the heat to thicken it. Alternatively, a small pinch of cornstarch mixed with water and simmered briefly can thicken the sauce nicely.
How do I make this recipe less spicy?
Simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes! The dish will still be packed with garlic, cheese, and herb flavor without any heat.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to dive into this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe—it’s one of those dishes that feels special but is so simple to make and shares beautifully at the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy meal after a long day, this skillet will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds with every creamy, cheesy bite. Give it a try and make this feel-good dish a new staple in your kitchen!
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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses infused with garlic and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic and Broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Pasta and Seasonings
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then stir in the uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has reduced.
- Add Chicken and Cheese: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy, creating a rich cheese sauce that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness, then serve the skillet pasta warm.
Notes
- Using diced chicken breast ensures quick and even cooking.
- Sauté the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- You can substitute penne or rotini with any short pasta shape.
- The crushed red pepper flakes are optional; omit for a milder dish.
- Stir regularly when simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the skillet.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
