Garlic Cream Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—tender slices of seasoned chicken served over pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and best of all, it’s ready in about 30 minutes. This dish delivers comfort and flavor, much like my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Cajun Chicken Pasta—perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Why This Recipe Works
Made with simple, everyday ingredients, this creamy pasta dish is satisfying and indulgent. The sauce is ultra-smooth, loaded with fresh garlic, and perfectly seasoned. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm Ciabatta Garlic Bread for a well-rounded, quick dinner.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Pasta – Short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rigatoni are ideal for capturing every drop of creamy sauce.
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to, but you can use chicken thighs or tenders if preferred.
- Parmesan – Always use freshly grated parmesan from the deli for the best texture and taste.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves offer the boldest flavor, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
- Butter – I recommend unsalted to better control saltiness in the dish.
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a subtle kick.
- Chicken broth – Choose low-sodium stock to keep the flavor balanced.
How to Make It
Step 1: Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets.
Step 2: Place plastic wrap over the chicken and pound it to an even ½-inch thickness using a mallet or rolling pin.
Step 3: This ensures uniform cooking and juicy results.
Step 4: Mix flour and seasoning in a shallow dish or plate.
Step 5: Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.
Step 6: Set coated chicken aside on a plate or board.
Step 7: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Once done, transfer chicken to a clean plate.
Step 9: In the same skillet, add butter, diced onions, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and tender.
Step 10: Pour in the chicken stock and add Italian seasoning.
Step 11: Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 12: Toss in the cooked pasta until coated. Slice the chicken and place on top before serving.
Extra Tips & Additions
- Even thickness = juicy chicken: Don’t skip the pounding step—it helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Add-ins: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Garnish: Top with sun-dried tomatoes, chopped parsley, or fresh basil for a final pop of flavor and freshness.
Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this Garlic Cream Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to earn rave reviews—rich, satisfying, and delicious down to the last bite.
Garlic Cream Chicken Pasta is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—tender slices of seasoned chicken served over pasta tossed in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and best of all, it’s ready in about 30 minutes. This dish delivers comfort and flavor, much like my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Cajun Chicken Pasta—perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Why This Recipe Works
Made with simple, everyday ingredients, this creamy pasta dish is satisfying and indulgent. The sauce is ultra-smooth, loaded with fresh garlic, and perfectly seasoned. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm Ciabatta Garlic Bread for a well-rounded, quick dinner.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Pasta – Short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rigatoni are ideal for capturing every drop of creamy sauce.
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to, but you can use chicken thighs or tenders if preferred.
- Parmesan – Always use freshly grated parmesan from the deli for the best texture and taste.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves offer the boldest flavor, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
- Butter – I recommend unsalted to better control saltiness in the dish.
- Cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a subtle kick.
- Chicken broth – Choose low-sodium stock to keep the flavor balanced.
How to Make It
Step 1: Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets.
Step 2: Place plastic wrap over the chicken and pound it to an even ½-inch thickness using a mallet or rolling pin.
Step 3: This ensures uniform cooking and juicy results.
Step 4: Mix flour and seasoning in a shallow dish or plate.
Step 5: Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated.
Step 6: Set coated chicken aside on a plate or board.
Step 7: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 8: Once done, transfer chicken to a clean plate.
Step 9: In the same skillet, add butter, diced onions, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and tender.
Step 10: Pour in the chicken stock and add Italian seasoning.
Step 11: Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 12: Toss in the cooked pasta until coated. Slice the chicken and place on top before serving.
Extra Tips & Additions
- Even thickness = juicy chicken: Don’t skip the pounding step—it helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Add-ins: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Garnish: Top with sun-dried tomatoes, chopped parsley, or fresh basil for a final pop of flavor and freshness.
Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this Garlic Cream Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to earn rave reviews—rich, satisfying, and delicious down to the last bite.
