Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast; 1 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 1/2 tsp oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta; 4 tbsp butter; 2 tsp dry shallots; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour; 3 cups heavy cream; 12 oz shredded Parmesan; 1/4 cup pasta water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder

Jump to Recipe·5.3 from 7 reviews

There’s just something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy, flavor-packed Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. This dish brings together juicy, well-seasoned chicken breast, a silky parmesan-infused sauce, and perfectly cooked gluten-free farfalle for a weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want lots of leftovers, this recipe is as generous as it is delicious. Get ready to fall in love with the combination of savory garlic, rich parmesan, and perfectly tender chicken all in one mouthwatering pasta dish.

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies in its straightforward but perfectly balanced ingredient list. Each item works harmoniously to deliver layered flavor, heavenly creaminess, and just the right textures. Let’s break down what you need to make this pasta truly unforgettable.

Olive oil: Deepens flavor and helps sear the chicken for that perfect golden crust.
Chicken breast: Tender, protein-packed slices become the hero of every bite.
Paprika: Brings gentle smoky warmth and color to the chicken.
Oregano: Adds an herby, Mediterranean hint to the seasoning mix.
Garlic powder: Doubles down on garlicky goodness for both chicken and sauce.
Thyme: Subtle earthiness to round out the herby flavors.
Black pepper: A gentle bite that balances out the richness of the sauce.
Salt: Essential for bringing out every bit of flavor from both chicken and pasta.
Gluten free farfalle pasta: Chewy “bow-tie” pasta that holds sauce beautifully while keeping things gluten-friendly.
Butter: Adds richness and buttery silkiness to the sauce base.
Dry shallots: Sweet, mellow onion flavor that elevates the cream sauce.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant medley of classic Italian herbs for extra depth.
Chicken broth: Lends savory backbone to create a truly flavorful sauce.
Gluten Free 1:1 Flour: Thickens the sauce without any gluten worries.
Heavy cream: The secret to that ultra-luxurious, velvety sauce everyone craves.
Shredded parmesan: Melts right in to create the iconic salty, nutty flavor profile.
Pasta water: The ultimate trick for adjusting sauce consistency and helping it cling to the pasta.

How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start things off by cooking your gluten free farfalle according to the package instructions for al dente perfection. This step gives you the perfect foundation—chewy, undetectably gluten-free pasta that will hold up beautifully to all the creamy sauce and hearty chicken you’re about to add.

Step 2: Mix and Prep Your Chicken Seasonings

Gather together your paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix them up in a small bowl to create your powerhouse seasoning blend—this little step ensures even seasoning on every bite of your chicken.

Step 3: Pound and Season the Chicken

For the juiciest results, lightly pound your chicken to an even thickness. Next, coat both sides generously with your prepared spice blend. Every piece should be covered for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sear for about 5 minutes on each side. This creates a gorgeously golden crust and locks in juiciness—don’t rush this part!

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Flip the chicken, lower the heat to medium low, and cover with a lid. Let it cook gently for another 10 to 12 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board while you prep your dreamy sauce.

Step 6: Build Your Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Add butter to the skillet (don’t wipe out those flavorful chicken drippings!). Once melted, toss in the dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir and let it sizzle for about a minute, unlocking amazing aroma and flavor.

Step 7: Create the Sauce Base

Stir in the gluten free flour, scraping up any golden bits stuck to the pan. This helps thicken your sauce and ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking constantly until the mixture turns smooth and creamy—your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Step 8: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Add the shredded parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted. Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it hits your perfect thickness. Now, toss in the cooked pasta, making sure it’s totally coated (use a little reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce and help it cling).

Step 9: Combine and Serve

Slice the rested chicken breast and layer it over your creamy pasta. Give everything a gentle toss, making sure every piece of chicken gets a bath in that luscious sauce. Serve your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta right away and watch everyone’s face light up!

How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, sprinkle your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta with freshly grated parmesan, a flurry of chopped parsley, or even a few red pepper flakes for punch. A drizzle of good olive oil or a scatter of lemon zest can add even more brightness—don’t be afraid to get a little fancy!

Side Dishes

Pair your pasta with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or warm, crusty gluten free bread for soaking up every drop of sauce. Roasted broccoli or green beans are perfect partners, offering welcome color and crunch alongside all that creamy indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta by serving it in a big family-style platter, swirling each portion into a nest with tongs for a restaurant-worthy vibe. For dinner parties, plate individual servings and top each with a slice of chicken and a parmesan crisp for extra flair!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta at its best, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but it remains every bit as delicious when reheated.

Freezing

While the creamy sauce is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions of the pasta and chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When reheating, a splash of cream or broth will help restore that lovely saucy texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through and the sauce is creamy and smooth again.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten free?

Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with any pasta you love, but gluten free farfalle makes it extra inclusive for everyone at your table.

Can I swap the chicken for another protein?

Definitely. Try this with shrimp, cooked turkey, or even pan-seared tofu for a fun twist while keeping that addictive garlic parmesan flavor profile front and center.

Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half and half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to lighten things up a bit. The sauce will be less rich but still wonderfully delicious.

How can I make this nut-free?

Parmesan cheese is nut-free, but always check the labels on your specific brands. Simple ingredient swaps elsewhere will keep this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta completely nut-free.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance, then reheat gently and toss with cooked pasta and sliced chicken just before serving. This is perfect for meal prep or stress-free entertaining.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a seriously comforting, crowd-pleasing meal, Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta deserves a spot at the top of your must-make list. With its rich, creamy sauce, flavorful chicken, and inviting aroma, this dish always turns an ordinary night into a little celebration. Give it a try and see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!