Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re hopelessly addicted to rich, creamy pasta, this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta will feel like a warm, savory hug at your dinner table. Big bites of juicy chicken, ribbons of farfalle, and a heavenly Parmesan cream sauce come together for the kind of weeknight meal you’ll want on repeat—gluten-free, cozy, and bursting with flavor in every forkful.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta plays an essential role, from the herby chicken to the lusciously creamy sauce. Here’s what makes this dish shine and why you don’t want to skip a single thing.

• Olive oil: Helps the chicken sear to golden perfection and adds a subtle, fruity undertone at the base of the dish.
• Chicken breast (Springer Mountain Farms, if you can!): You want plump, boneless chicken for the juiciest, most flavorful protein in every bite.
• Paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt: This aromatic blend creates a crave-worthy chicken crust—don’t be shy when seasoning!
• Gluten-free farfalle pasta: The perfect little “bowties” hold onto the creamy Parmesan sauce while keeping this recipe friendly for all eaters.
• Butter: Melts into the pan for luscious richness, forming the backbone of the sauce.
• Dry shallots: Bring sweet, gentle onion notes without any chopping required.
• Italian seasoning: Adds complexity and familiar Italian flair to the final sauce.
• Chicken broth: A touch of savory depth that keeps the sauce from tasting flat.
• Gluten Free 1:1 Flour: Thickens the sauce for that classic, cling-to-the-pasta texture—no gluey mess here!
• Heavy cream: The key to dreamy, decadent, restaurant-worthy sauce at home.
• Shredded Parmesan: Choose the real stuff and let it melt in for the boldest, cheesiest flavor.
• Pasta water: Your secret ingredient for loosening the sauce just the right amount.
• Extra garlic powder and salt: Little finishing touches to make everything pop.

Variations

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to play with flavors or adapt to what’s in your pantry. These easy tweaks make it simple to fit any craving or dietary need!

• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu instead of chicken for a tasty twist on tradition.
• Change Up the Greens: Toss in spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes a minute before serving for a bright pop of color and nutrition.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use your favorite plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and vegan Parmesan to keep things creamy and delicious for everyone.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle, tingly heat that plays beautifully with the creamy sauce and savory chicken.

How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the gluten free farfalle just until al dente, following the package directions. As the pasta cooks, grab a cup of the pasta water before draining—the starchiness is pure magic for your sauce later!

Step 2: Season and Prepare the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together your paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pound the chicken breast slightly so it cooks evenly, then rub the seasoning blend generously on both sides of each piece for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Sear and Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden and fragrant. Flip, lower the heat a touch, cover with a lid, and let it cook for another 10–12 minutes until the chicken is juicy and just cooked through (165°F inside!). Move it to a cutting board to rest while you make the sauce.

Step 4: Start the Sauce

Add butter to the same skillet (no need to clean it!), letting it melt before stirring in the dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about a minute—your kitchen will smell incredible—then sprinkle in the gluten free flour and stir, scraping up all the tasty bits from the bottom.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Slowly whisk in your chicken broth and heavy cream, working out any lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy, then pour in the shredded Parmesan and let it melt completely. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens to your desired consistency—it should be glossy, decadent, and ready to cling to every bowtie.

Step 6: Pull It All Together

Add the cooked pasta and a bit of reserved pasta water (start with a tablespoon at a time) to the silky sauce, tossing well so every piece is coated. Slice your rested chicken into strips, nestle them back into the pasta, and stir gently. That’s it—your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

Finish your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta with plenty of extra shaved Parmesan—not just for show, but for that nutty flavor pop. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a few cracks of black pepper add brightness and bring the whole dish to life. If you’re craving a hint of zip, lemon zest or a dusting of red pepper flakes are wonderful finishing touches!

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but it absolutely sings alongside a big green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Crusty gluten-free bread or garlic knots are perfect for dragging through any leftover sauce, and tender roasted vegetables (think asparagus or broccoli) make the meal feel balanced and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Try twirling the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta into little nests for individual plating—it looks elegant and helps trap extra sauce in every swirl. Layer sliced chicken artfully on top, scatter with shaved Parmesan and greens, and serve family-style in a big, beautiful bowl for that “special occasion” feel, even on a Tuesday night.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay perfectly tasty for up to three days—just enough time to savor every creamy, herby bite again and again.

Freezing

This pasta dish can be frozen, but for the creamiest texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe, tightly sealed container and thaw it in the fridge overnight. Expect the sauce to be a little less silky (cream-based sauces can separate), but still oh-so comforting.

Reheating

To bring back the magic, reheat Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop, splashing in a little extra cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to revive that saucy, creamy consistency. Microwave in short bursts if you’re in a rush—just stir often to prevent the sauce from getting too thick.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something about Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta that never fails to bring excitement to the dinner table. It’s creamy, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving it again next week! Give it a go, and let this pasta become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every garlicky, cheesy bite!

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