Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for an irresistibly creamy, wonderfully flavorful dinner that feels like pure comfort in a bowl, Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the dish you need! The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, a silky Parmesan garlic sauce, and gluten-free farfalle makes every bite a celebration. This recipe is a hit with family and friends alike, promise—no matter who sits at your table, they’ll be asking for seconds (and the recipe).

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of staple ingredients to create this spectacularly satisfying meal. Each one has a special job to make sure your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta has big flavor, perfect texture, and lots of cheesy goodness.

• Olive oil: Use your favorite brand; it gives both richness and golden color to the chicken as it sears.
• Chicken breast: Springer Mountain Farms chicken is juicy and tender, the perfect protein for this pasta dish.
• Paprika: Adds warm color and subtle smokiness that makes the chicken pop.
• Oregano: Brings an herby Mediterranean note that pairs so well with the creamy sauce.
• Garlic powder: Infuses that signature savory depth, so every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Thyme: Lends earthiness and rounds out the herb blend for the chicken.
• Black pepper: Kicks up the flavor gently without overpowering the sauce.
• Salt: Essential to balance all the flavors—don’t skip or skimp!
• Gluten free farfalle pasta: Bowtie-shaped and totally gluten free, it holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Butter: Adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness to the pasta sauce.
• Dry shallots: Slightly sweet, they create a deep flavor base for the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: A chef’s shortcut for a fragrant, well-rounded taste.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory flavor and keeps it ultra-luxurious.
• Gluten Free 1:1 Flour: Thickens the sauce perfectly so it coats every piece of pasta.
• Heavy cream: The secret to that dreamy, velvety texture everyone loves.
• Shredded parmesan: The star of the show, delivering that nutty, salty umami punch.
• Pasta water: Helps thin the sauce to just the right consistency while adding a touch of silkiness.

How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first: bring a generous pot of salted water to a boil and cook your gluten-free farfalle until perfectly al dente. Follow the directions on the box for timing. When it’s ready, ladle out about a quarter cup of the pasta water before draining—trust me, you’ll want it for the creamy sauce later!

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, combine your paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Gently pound the chicken breasts just enough to even them out so they cook evenly, then generously season both sides with your homemade spice blend. Even seasoning means every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium. Once the oil shimmers, add your chicken breasts, giving them plenty of room to cook. Let them sear undisturbed for five minutes on each side to develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step brings so much flavor (and color) to your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta!

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Chicken

After both sides are beautifully seared, flip the chicken once more and lower the heat to medium-low. Place a lid on the pan and cook for another 10 to 12 minutes. When the chicken reaches 165 degrees inside, transfer them to a cutting board to rest (don’t forget this step—resting keeps them juicy!).

Step 5: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Now for the best part: the sauce! Drop butter into the hot skillet and let it melt. Stir in the dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; let these aromatics sizzle for a minute so they fully bloom. Sprinkle in your gluten-free flour and stir well, scraping up every bit of flavorful goodness from the pan. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then whisk until everything is smooth as silk. Add the shredded Parmesan and continue stirring gently until it melts into a dreamy sauce. Let it simmer until thickened to your liking.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every bowtie in that luscious sauce. If it seems a little thick, drizzle in some reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time. This step helps the sauce cling perfectly to each piece, ensuring your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is creamy to the last forkful.

Step 7: Slice Chicken and Serve

Quickly slice your rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces, nestle them on top of the pasta, and give everything a loving toss. Finish with a little extra Parmesan for good measure, then gather everyone around—dinner is ready and it’s irresistible!

How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra shredded Parmesan and a scattering of fresh chopped parsley or basil add brightness and pop. If you want next-level aroma, try a light scattering of cracked black pepper or even a small drizzle of olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

While this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is amazing on its own, a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette balances the richness. Garlic bread (gluten-free if you wish) is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables—especially asparagus or broccoli—add a fresh, colorful touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in shallow bowls, top with a few elegant parmesan curls and some microgreens for a restaurant feel. For a cozy gathering, let friends help themselves from a big family-style platter. Or, if you love making food interactive, offer a toppings “bar” with crispy bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store any leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so tomorrow’s lunch is something to look forward to! Enjoy leftovers within three days for best quality.

Freezing

You can freeze your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, although the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as needed. This prevents the creamy sauce from splitting and helps restore its velvety texture. Microwave reheating also works—use a lower power setting, stir often, and don’t overheat.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While farfalle holds the sauce beautifully, you can swap in any gluten-free pasta shape you like—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cook time so you don’t overcook the noodles.

How do I make this dish dairy free?

To go dairy free, use plant-based butter, a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, and a vegan parmesan-style cheese. The sauce will still be creamy and satisfying, plus you’ll meet everyone’s dietary needs.

Do I have to use gluten-free flour in the sauce?

If you’re not gluten sensitive, all-purpose flour works perfectly in the sauce. Otherwise, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend ensures the texture stays just right for everyone.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully cook, cool, and refrigerate the seasoned chicken breasts up to two days in advance. Then, simply slice and reheat gently before tossing with the pasta and sauce.

What protein swaps work with this recipe?

Shrimp and turkey breast are both delicious in place of chicken for this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Or, skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that’s always a crowd-pleaser, you have to try Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that turns any night into something special—don’t be surprised when it becomes a new family favorite!

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