Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s bursting with comforting flavors and creamy indulgence—Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is exactly what your weeknight dinners have been craving. This recipe brings together tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with a luscious garlic and Parmesan sauce that coats every bite of the gluten free farfalle pasta. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a cozy, satisfying meal that feels special while being straightforward to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is deliberately chosen to create layers of flavor and texture. From the fragrant herbs seasoning the chicken to the rich cream and sharp Parmesan melting into the sauce, each element plays a vital role in making this recipe a success. No fuss, just simple staples that come together beautifully.

Olive oil: The base fat to sear the chicken and build flavor in the pan.
Chicken breast: Tender and lean protein, pounded thin for even cooking.
Paprika: Adds a smoky depth and lovely color to the chicken seasoning.
Oregano: Brings an earthy herbal brightness to balance the richness.
Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory note that’s key in both chicken and sauce.
Thyme: A subtle aromatic to complement the other spices.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for gentle heat and complexity.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons every component perfectly.
Gluten free farfalle pasta: The playful, bow-tie shaped pasta that holds sauce well.
Butter: Adds richness and helps build the silky sauce texture.
Dry shallots: Provide a mild onion flavor that elevates the sauce.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix adding herbal complexity to the creamy sauce.
Chicken broth: Introduces a savory, meaty note that lightens the sauce.
Gluten free 1:1 flour: Thickens the sauce without any clumps.
Heavy cream: Creates the luscious base that ties the pasta and chicken together.
Shredded Parmesan: The star cheese with its nutty, salty flavor melting into the sauce.
Pasta water: Used sparingly to adjust sauce consistency and help everything cling smoothly.

How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and cook the gluten free farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. The pasta should have a slight firmness to complement the soft, creamy sauce, so keep an eye on it. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water to adjust your sauce at the end.

Step 2: Season and Prepare the Chicken

Mix together the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a vibrant seasoning blend. Pound your chicken breasts gently to an even thickness, which helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy. Then rub the seasoning mixture onto both sides of the chicken, ensuring every bit is coated for maximum flavor impact.

Step 3: Sear and Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts down and sear until golden brown on each side, about 5 minutes per side. After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the chicken cook through for 10 to 12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees, guaranteeing juicy but fully cooked chicken. Remove the chicken and rest it on a cutting board before slicing.

Step 4: Build the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add the butter to the pan juices and let it melt completely. Stir in dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, cooking gently for about one minute until aromatic. Sprinkle the gluten free flour evenly over the butter and shallot mixture and stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, creating a smooth sauce. Reduce heat slightly and let it bubble gently until it thickens.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Combine

Fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and the sauce becomes incredibly creamy and velvety. Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing so that every piece gets coated with the rich sauce. Add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time if the sauce feels too thick, aiming for a consistency that clings perfectly without being heavy. Finally, arrange the sliced chicken on top and give everything one last gentle stir.

How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich sauce. For an extra flavor punch, a few cracked black peppercorns or a light dusting of additional Parmesan can elevate the dish visually and taste-wise. These simple garnishes turn a comforting meal into something truly special.

Side Dishes

While the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a satisfying meal on its own, serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness with freshness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add vibrant texture and color, making the plate even more inviting and nutritionally complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For an entertaining twist, plate the pasta in individual shallow bowls, placing the sliced chicken atop like a crown. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or garlic-infused oil around the edges and serve with warm crusty gluten free bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. This approach feels elegant but remains accessible for everyday meals or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture, stir well before reheating, as the sauce may thicken or separate slightly when chilled.

Freezing

This pasta dish can be frozen, but for best quality, freeze the pasta and sauce separately from the chicken. The pasta with sauce can be placed in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s smooth creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving at full power to prevent the cream from curdling; instead, use short bursts of low heat and stir for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Absolutely! While gluten free farfalle works wonderfully by holding onto the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even gluten free spaghetti would also be delicious alternatives depending on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy free?

You can substitute the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and choose a vegan Parmesan alternative to make this dish dairy free. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly, but it will still be creamy and tasty.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Making sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly. Also, don’t skip covering it during the final cooking stage; that traps moisture and keeps the chicken juicy and tender for this pasta dish.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently warm it on the stove, add the cooked pasta and chicken, and toss them together for a quick meal.

What type of Parmesan cheese do you recommend?

Opt for a high-quality Parmesan that is freshly grated if possible. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and texture, so freshly grated Parmesan really takes this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta to the next level.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for over and over again. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this pasta will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with satisfaction. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection!