Name: Crowd-Pleasing Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta for potlucks
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breast, cubed); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp paprika (optional for color & flavor); 2 Tbsp butter; 6 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Introduction to Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is reliable on a busy night—it keeps the steps short and the flavor high. It uses pantry staples and a few smart cues, so you know exactly when to stir, simmer, and serve. You do not need special tools or fancy skills—follow the cues and you will get a cozy, homey Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta every time.

Good heat brings sweetness from onions and browning builds savory depth without bitterness. Salt sharpens flavor while a touch of acid at the end makes everything taste brighter. If the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta sauce feels thick, add a splash of liquid; if it feels thin, simmer a minute longer.

Benefits of This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

The method is simple, the ingredient list is sensible, and the results are repeatable. It scales up for family or down for one, and it takes well to the swaps in the Variations section. Cleanup is easy because most of the cooking happens in one pan.

Fast, weeknight-friendly method.
Pantry ingredients and clean flavors.
Flexible swaps for protein, veg, and heat level.
Scales for family or meal prep.
Consistent results using visual cues.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

8 oz penne pasta
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika (optional for color & flavor)
2 Tbsp butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Cook the pasta: Boil the penne according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Season the chicken: In a small bowl, toss the chicken cubes with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through (~3–5 minutes per side). Remove from pan and set aside.
Make the sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add broth & cream: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cheese it up: Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
Combine everything: Return the chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until everything is coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Adapted from a one-skillet recipe capturing all the creamy garlic goodness in about 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 462 kcal per serving (based on four servings)

Tips for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Do not rush the aromatics; let them soften until sweet before you add liquids. Avoid crowding the pan so moisture can escape and browning can happen. Taste your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta before serving and adjust salt, acid, and heat to your liking.

Soften aromatics until sweet before adding liquids.
Avoid overcrowding to keep browning active.
Finish with salt or acid for balance.

External Resources for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Variations

Protein: chicken, turkey, tofu, beef, or mushrooms.
Lighter: olive oil for butter, extra stock for body.
Spicy: red pepper flakes, cayenne, or harissa.
Gluten-free: GF pasta or serve over rice.
Low-carb: zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

FAQs about Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—cool fully and store airtight up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of stock or water.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat on low and refresh seasoning to taste.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Most versions freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently.

What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?

Reduce briefly to thicken; loosen with stock, pasta water, or milk if too thick. Adjust salt and acid.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is weeknight friendly, flexible, and built around dependable cues. It gives you control without stress and delivers the comfort people expect. Serve this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with a simple salad or crusty bread and dinner is done.

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