Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, tender chicken, and creamy pasta? Look no further! Our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is here to tantalize your taste buds and become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to create this mouth-watering meal step-by-step and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills.

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that features succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce. This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients List for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need to make this creamy delight:
- 10 ounces dry pasta (any kind)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or 16 oz)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Substitutions and Variations
While the original recipe is undoubtedly delicious, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions, or switch to whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Chicken: Substitute chicken breast with boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for additional flavors and nutrients.
- Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the tomatoes.
- Chop the spinach if using.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and chopped spinach (if using) to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until it's no longer pink inside to keep it tender and juicy.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so sauté it on medium heat and keep a close eye on it.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Use a large, shallow bowl for serving to showcase the creamy sauce and colorful ingredients.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil on top for added visual appeal and a touch of heat.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop the ingredients and season the chicken in advance to streamline the cooking process.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Doubling the Recipe: This recipe can be easily doubled to serve a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply add it to the skillet when you combine the pasta and sauce to heat it through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? A: You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute along with dairy-free cheese to make this dish dairy-free.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta? A: It's not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream sauce may separate and change texture upon reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe will leave a lasting impression. Don't hesitate to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking!
Try this recipe today and savor the rich, creamy goodness of homemade Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. Bon appétit!
PrintCreamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Creamy garlic chicken pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, rich cream, and flavorful garlic, with a touch of spinach and Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 10 ounces dry pasta (any kind)
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cups heavy cream (or 16 oz)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and cook until softened. Add spinach, if using, and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to skillet and combine with sauce.
- Toss in cooked pasta until well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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