This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting meal. Packed with flavor and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pan Magic: Everything cooks in a single skillet—less mess, less stress!
- Creamy & Cheesy: The rich garlic parmesan sauce is pure comfort food.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta shape or add veggies like spinach or broccoli.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts , cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
- 4 cloves garlic , minced 🧄
- 2 cups chicken broth 🥣
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or your favorite pasta ) 🍝
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Fresh parsley , chopped, for garnish 🌿
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken 🔥
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt , pepper , paprika , and garlic powder .
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes . Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic 🧄
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute , until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 3: Deglaze and Cook the Pasta 🍝
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream , stirring to deglaze the bottom of the skillet and scrape up any flavorful browned bits.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
- Cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 12–15 minutes .
Step 4: Add the Cheese 🧀
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. The sauce will thicken as you stir.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish 🍴
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the cheesy sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 6: Serve 🍽️
- Serve hot straight from the skillet, garnished with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze Option: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
- Calories: ~500
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~25g
Enjoy this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet as a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its one-pan simplicity and bold flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or special occasions. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!