Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil); 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & pepper (to taste); 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil); 1 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ jumbo yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup); 4-6 large cloves garlic (minced); 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free, or protein pasta); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp chopped parsley

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Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, then combined with pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s simple to make and sure to become a family favorite.

A white plate holds a creamy penne pasta dish mixed with grilled chicken strips, both coated in a light tan sauce with visible small green herb pieces scattered throughout. Shredded cheese and black pepper lightly cover the top layer, adding texture and color contrast. A black fork rests on the edge of the plate. In the background, a silver pan filled with the same pasta sits on a white marbled surface, along with a white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
1 tbsp unsalted butter
½ jumbo yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup)
4-6 large cloves garlic (minced)
8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free, or protein pasta)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken dry, then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
Step 2: Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon avocado oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining avocado oil and butter to the pan. Add the diced onion, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, until it begins to soften and become translucent. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 4: Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the broth to a light boil, then add the dry pasta. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Step 6: Turn off the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the pan with the pasta. Toss gently to combine, then serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use gluten-free or protein-enriched pasta to suit dietary needs.
Add steamed broccoli or spinach at the end for a veggie boost.
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A large silver pan filled with creamy pasta, topped with several pieces of grilled chicken strips that have a golden brown, slightly charred texture. The pasta is a light yellow penne coated evenly in a smooth, white cream sauce. Bits of chopped green herbs are scattered across the dish, adding small pops of color. Grated cheese is lightly sprinkled over the top, contrasting with the chicken and pasta layers. The pan rests on a wooden surface beside a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To thicken, you might add a little flour or cornstarch mixed with water.