There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe for Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Not only does it come together in just 30 minutes, but it’s also gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for anyone with dietary restrictions. The combination of perfectly seared chicken, al dente farfalle pasta, and a velvety sauce will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
This dish has quickly become a family favorite in my house. The balance of flavors—the smoky paprika on the chicken, the savory Parmesan, and the creamy, garlic-infused sauce—creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a regular Tuesday night, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: With gluten-free pasta and flour, it’s easy to accommodate dietary needs.
- Family-Approved: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic Parmesan sauce is indulgent yet balanced, pairing beautifully with the seasoned chicken and pasta.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, swap proteins, or tweak the spices to make it your own.
Now let’s dive into the details so you can whip up this incredible dish tonight!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy pasta masterpiece:
- Chicken Breasts: 1½ pounds, boneless and skinless – The protein star of the dish, seasoned and seared to perfection.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – For searing the chicken, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
- Paprika: 1½ teaspoons – Brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the chicken.
- Oregano: 1½ teaspoons – Adds an earthy herbaceous note to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Thyme: ½ teaspoon – A subtle herb that complements the creamy sauce.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Balances the flavors in the seasoning mix.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – For a hint of spice and warmth.
- Gluten-Free Farfalle Pasta: 12 ounces – The base of the dish, offering a tender bite.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons – Creates a rich base for the sauce.
- Dry Shallots: 2 teaspoons – Adds a subtle onion-like sweetness to the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons – A blend of herbs that ties the sauce together.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup – Adds depth of flavor to the sauce and helps thin it to the perfect consistency.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons – Helps thicken the sauce without gluten.
- Heavy Cream: 3 cups – The key to a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: 12 ounces – Adds sharp, nutty richness to the sauce.
- Pasta Water: ¼ cup (reserved from cooking the pasta) – Helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the gluten-free farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta, then set both aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the dry shallots and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning to infuse the butter with herbal flavors.
Sprinkle the gluten-free all-purpose flour into the skillet, whisking continuously to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps and create a smooth base. Slowly add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely. The result should be a creamy, velvety sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Add the cooked farfalle pasta and diced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Pour in the reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the sauce and warmed through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Divide the creamy chicken garlic Parmesan pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Season Generously: The spice blend on the chicken adds a ton of flavor to the overall dish. Don’t skimp!
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sear the chicken just until it’s cooked through to keep it juicy and tender.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water is a secret weapon for creating a cohesive, creamy sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes have anti-caking agents that affect the texture of the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to thin it out.
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe Variations
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences:
- Vegetable Additions: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a hint of heat.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~700
- Protein: ~45g
- Fat: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~800mg
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, tender gluten-free pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce makes it a dish you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a romantic dinner, or a family gathering, this recipe delivers big on flavor and comfort without requiring hours in the kitchen.
What makes this dish even better is how customizable it is. You can add veggies for extra nutrients, adjust the spice level to suit your taste, or even switch up the protein to keep things fresh. No matter how you tweak it, the heart of this dish—the creamy, cheesy garlic sauce—will remain the star. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.
So, the next time you’re craving something comforting yet elegant, give this recipe a try. It’s guaranteed to leave your kitchen smelling amazing and your taste buds happy. Don’t forget to share your version with friends and family, and let me know how it turns out! Snap a picture, post it on social media, and tag me—because nothing makes me happier than seeing your delicious creations.
Let’s make dinner time a little more magical with this creamy, dreamy pasta dish. Enjoy every bite! 🍝🧄🧀
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Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta (Gluten-Free Option)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish made with tender chicken, rich garlic Parmesan sauce, and gluten-free farfalle pasta. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 1½ pounds, boneless and skinless
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Paprika: 1½ teaspoons
- Oregano: 1½ teaspoons
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Thyme: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Gluten-Free Farfalle Pasta: 12 ounces
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Dry Shallots: 2 teaspoons
- Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Heavy Cream: 3 cups
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: 12 ounces
- Pasta Water: ¼ cup
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve pasta water.
- Season and sear chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Dice and set aside.
- Make sauce with butter, shallots, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Add Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce, adding pasta water to bind.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Add broccoli or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American