Name: Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 8 ounces rotini pasta; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional

I’ve made countless pasta dishes, but this Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one I always come back to. It’s comfort food at its finest—juicy pan-seared chicken breast, coated in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, and tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta that soaks up every drop of flavor. The first time I whipped this up on a chilly evening, it instantly became a household favorite. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together with everyday ingredients.

What I love most is how balanced it is. The crispy golden crust on the chicken gives a satisfying bite, while the creamy sauce provides the kind of richness that makes you close your eyes with the first forkful. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just need something soul-warming after a long day, this dish delivers—without requiring a culinary degree or an overwhelming ingredient list.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: quick, creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. The garlic-Parmesan combo is a classic that never fails, but paired with tender pasta and pan-seared chicken, it becomes something really special. It’s cozy enough for winter nights and impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s easy to tweak to your own taste or pantry!

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy when seared properly. If you prefer even juicier cuts, boneless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute—they offer more flavor and tenderness, especially if you don’t mind a slightly richer bite. For smaller portions or quicker cooking, you can even use chicken tenders or slice the breast into cutlets. The key is seasoning well and not overcooking.

Options for Substitutions

Pasta: I love using rotini because the spirals catch all that garlicky cream sauce. But penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work beautifully too. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parm is best, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can give the sauce a delicious twist.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it rich and velvety. For a lighter version, half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk works in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic has unbeatable flavor, but garlic powder can work if you’re out.
Herbs: Parsley is classic, but basil or thyme can bring a different depth.
Protein Switch: Want to skip chicken? Shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms are fantastic alternatives.
Vegetables: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli to round out the dish.

Ingredients for This Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – These are the star of the dish, providing a lean, juicy base that soaks up all the garlicky, cheesy goodness.
Olive Oil – Helps achieve that golden-brown sear on the chicken while adding richness to the flavor profile.
Garlic (Freshly Minced) – The bold, aromatic backbone of the sauce—fresh garlic makes all the difference here.
Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious, velvety texture of the sauce that clings perfectly to both the chicken and pasta.
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) – Adds sharp, nutty depth to the sauce and thickens it beautifully. Pre-grated just won’t deliver the same flavor.
Rotini Pasta – Its twists hold onto the sauce in every bite, making it ideal for creamy dishes like this.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the chicken and sauce layers.
Butter – Adds creaminess and helps deglaze the pan, pulling all that savory seared flavor into the sauce.
Parsley (Chopped, Optional) – For a fresh, herby finish and a pop of green that makes the dish feel complete.

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking. Pat them dry and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cutlets and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, boil a pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet used for the chicken. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan

Add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce thickens. If it becomes too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce until well coated. Slice the chicken and place it on top, spooning some of the sauce over it. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

How Long to Cook the Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes:

Chicken: Searing the chicken takes about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You want an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Pasta: Most rotini types cook in 8–10 minutes.
Sauce: The garlic Parmesan cream sauce thickens in about 5–7 minutes once the cream and cheese are added.

Once everything is prepped and cooked, a quick toss brings it all together in no time.

Tips for Perfect Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pound or slice the chicken evenly to ensure quick, uniform cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce—it melts better and avoids clumping.
Don’t overheat the cream. Simmer it gently to prevent curdling and to keep the sauce silky.
Deglaze the pan after searing the chicken. The browned bits on the bottom add tons of flavor to your sauce.
Add pasta water cautiously. It helps adjust the sauce texture, so drizzle it in slowly as needed.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after searing—it keeps the juices locked in.
Taste and season at the end. Parmesan adds salt, so adjust only after it’s in the sauce.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken: Thin chicken cutlets cook fast. Leaving them too long on the pan will dry them out.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always go for fresh grated Parmesan.
Boiling the Cream: This can break the sauce and cause separation. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer.
Skipping the Pasta Water: It’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce thickness and helping it cling to the pasta.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping it all in at once can cause clumping. Stir it in slowly and let it melt gradually.
Crowding the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding drops the heat and ruins the crust.
Forgetting to Season in Layers: Season chicken, the sauce, and pasta individually for the best flavor payoff.

What to Serve With Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up extra sauce—it’s a no-brainer side.

Caesar Salad

Crisp, tangy, and refreshing, this classic salad pairs wonderfully with the rich creaminess of the dish.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds balance and a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Their sweet acidity brightens up the overall dish beautifully.

Sautéed Spinach with Lemon

A quick and light side that brings color and a citrusy finish.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy and flavorful, it adds a sophisticated touch to the plate.

A Glass of White Wine

Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness.

Marinated Olives or Antipasto

Great as a small appetizer before diving into the main dish.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this dish reheats beautifully!

Refrigerator: Store the chicken and pasta in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir often to keep it creamy and prevent separation.

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands used.

Serving Size: 1 generous plate
Calories: ~640 kcal
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 145mg
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g

This meal is hearty and satisfying, offering a good balance of protein and carbs with an indulgent creamy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Always go for freshly grated Parmesan from a block. It melts better, tastes richer, and won’t make the sauce gritty like pre-shredded cheese can.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then store separately. Reheat everything gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Simmer the cream over low to medium heat, and add the Parmesan slowly while stirring. Avoid boiling the sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Try half-and-half for a lighter option, or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just note the flavor will slightly change.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta, and make sure your Parmesan and cream are certified gluten-free.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all. But you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne to the sauce if you want some heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are a great substitute. They’re juicy and flavorful—just be sure to cook them thoroughly.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or even a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy richness beautifully.

Conclusion

Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one of those magical meals that checks every box—easy, satisfying, and seriously crave-worthy. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it to guests with garlic bread and wine, it always delivers. It’s comforting without being complicated and offers that restaurant-quality wow factor with pantry-staple ingredients. Make it once, and I promise—it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen.