If you are craving comfort food that feels indulgent yet simple to make, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a total winner. Imagine tender chicken breasts perfectly seasoned and seared, swimming in a luscious, velvety sauce bursting with garlic, parmesan, and herbs, all tossed with al dente pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor. This dish brings together wholesome ingredients with a touch of elegance, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without stress. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to meals for mouthwatering satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the tender chicken that adds protein, the aromatic herbs that layer flavor, or the creamy parmesan sauce that binds everything into a harmonious bite. These ingredients are easy to find and straightforward to work with, making your cooking journey smooth and rewarding.
- Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast (1 ½ lb): Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Paprika (1 ½ teaspoon): Adds a smoky depth and beautiful color to your chicken seasoning.
- Oregano (1 ½ teaspoon): Brings a warm, slightly bitter herbaceous note.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons total): Infuses the dish with rich, savory garlic flavor.
- Thyme (½ teaspoon): Offers subtle earthiness that complements the creamy sauce.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Lends just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- Salt (1 teaspoon total, divided): Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overwhelming them.
- Gluten-free farfalle pasta (12 oz): Holds the sauce beautifully with its bow-tie shape and ensures everyone can enjoy the meal.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for the sauce, smoothing out the texture.
- Dry shallots (2 teaspoons): Adds sweetness and subtle depth without overpowering.
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons): A blend of herbs that ties the whole flavor profile together.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Gives moisture and savory undertones to the cream sauce.
- Gluten-Free 1:1 Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce flawlessly without lumps.
- Heavy cream (3 cups): The heart of creamy indulgence that makes this pasta irresistible.
- Shredded parmesan (12 oz): Brings sharp, nutty flavor and a luscious cheesy richness.
- Pasta water (¼ cup): Helps adjust sauce consistency and encourages adhesive coating on the pasta.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden crust with richness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Boil Pasta
Start by cooking the gluten-free farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions carefully and aim for al dente – tender but firm to the bite. This texture is essential because it helps the pasta hold up when mixed with the luxurious sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Step 2: Season Chicken
While the pasta cooks, mix paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which ensures even cooking, and generously season both sides with the spice blend. This seasoning combo is the backbone of the dish’s flavor, creating a delicious crust and juicy interior.
Step 3: Sear Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook until each side is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest, preserving juices and tenderness.
Step 4: Prepare Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add the dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir gently to release the herbs’ aroma. Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken over medium heat. Stir in the shredded parmesan until melted and silky smooth – this is the soul of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, rich and deeply flavorful.
Step 5: Combine
Drain the pasta, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water. Toss the farfalle into the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to get that perfect coating consistency. Slice the rested chicken and gently fold it into the pasta. This final step brings everything together for a harmonious plate of rich creaminess and seasoned chicken bliss.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a lovely pop of green and fresh aroma that balances the richness. For a bit of a kick, crushed red pepper flakes or a dusting of extra parmesan on top elevate the presentation and taste. These garnishes turn simple comfort food into something visually inviting and flavorful.
Side Dishes
Serve this creamy pasta with a fresh green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans offer texture contrasts and fragrant earthiness that complements the hearty pasta beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with the sliced chicken artfully arranged on top, garnished with fresh herbs. Another fun way is to bake the combined pasta and chicken briefly with extra parmesan until slightly golden and bubbly – a cozy twist that adds a delightful crust on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce thickens as it cools, so it’s normal for it to firm up. Just give it a good stir when reheating to bring back that silky texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, but to maintain the best quality, freeze the sauce and pasta separately from the chicken if possible. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat creamy pasta slowly in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as it warms. This careful reheating ensures everything stays luscious and prevents the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but still delicious and creamy.
What can I substitute for gluten-free flour?
If you’re not gluten-free, all-purpose flour works perfectly. For a gluten-free option, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used as a thickener; just mix with a little water before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and make the sauce a day ahead, but it’s best to combine and toss with pasta just before serving to keep the pasta texture perfect and the sauce fresh.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, slice into the thickest part to check that it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear.
Final Thoughts
Making this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is like treating yourself to a cozy dinner that feels both special and effortless. With each forkful, you’ll enjoy creamy, cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned pasta coming together in the most comforting way. I cannot recommend enough giving this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a beloved classic in your home just like it is in mine.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breast seared to perfection with a luscious, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce. Tossed with gluten-free farfalle pasta, this dish offers a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce is enhanced with Italian seasoning and shallots, creating an irresistible flavor experience in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast
- 1 ½ teaspoon paprika (OliveNation)
- 1 ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (OliveNation)
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoon olive oil (Costabile Brand)
Pasta
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Sauce
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoon dry shallots
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoon Gluten-Free 1:1 Flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz shredded parmesan
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set pasta aside.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness and season both sides generously with the spice mix.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens. Lower the heat and stir in shredded parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt as needed.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and nestle on top or mix into the pasta. Serve the creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta hot, garnished with additional parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Make sure to pound the chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich.
- Use freshly shredded parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth melting.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices and keep it moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
