What Pasta Works Best with Creamy Garlic Chicken?

When making Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta , you have many pasta options to choose from. Long pasta like fettuccine or linguine creates a luxurious feel, while penne or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well in their ridges. Gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta is also a great choice for dietary preferences.

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken works wonderfully for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken is especially convenient, saving you time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred or dice the chicken and mix it into the sauce towards the end of cooking to warm it through.

How Can I Thicken the Sauce Further?

If your sauce feels too thin, there are a few easy fixes. Simmer it for a few extra minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce. The result? A thick and creamy consistency perfect for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta .

Is Heavy Cream Necessary, or Can It Be Substituted?

While heavy cream is ideal for achieving the rich texture of Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta , you can substitute it with alternatives. Half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of butter works in a pinch. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe: Tips, Variations, & More

Description

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting dinner recipe made with tender chicken, a rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s an indulgent yet easy dish for any night of the week

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
Combine everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the drained pasta and toss until well-coated in the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 24 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 30 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy garlic, easy dinner, Italian-inspired, family meal