Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken is the kind of comfort food that never fails. Each bite is rich with velvety cream, savory Parmesan, and juicy chicken bites kissed with golden garlic butter. It strikes that perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction, making it an ideal pick for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat.

The key to its magic lies in the texture contrast: tender pasta coated in a silky sauce, paired with crisp-edged, pan-seared chicken that’s juicy on the inside. It’s the kind of dish that feels luxurious without requiring a culinary degree. From the first aroma of sizzling garlic to the final forkful, this pasta hits all the right notes.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Parmesan Dishes?

Linguine or fettuccine are both excellent choices because their flat shape catches the creamy sauce beautifully. But don’t hesitate to use spaghetti, tagliatelle, or even rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just aim for a pasta that holds up well to a thick, creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken

Chicken Breast or Thighs – Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces. They absorb the garlic butter flavor beautifully.
Garlic – Freshly minced for deep, savory richness.
Butter – For sautéing the chicken and layering flavor.
Olive Oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a second layer of richness.
Heavy Cream – The base of your silky, decadent sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for maximum melt and taste.
Pasta (Linguine/Fettuccine) – Cooked al dente so it holds the sauce well.
Salt and Pepper – To season every layer from chicken to sauce.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herby complexity.
Parsley (Optional) – For a fresh, colorful finish.

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and butter. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt into the cream for a luscious texture.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the cream sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley and a final dusting of Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Serving and Storing This Pasta

Serve this creamy chicken pasta hot and fresh, ideally in shallow bowls to capture all that luscious sauce. A side of crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad makes for a perfect meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For best results, stick with heavy cream or add a bit of cream cheese for extra body.

What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal because they cook quickly and stay tender.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the chicken and sauce a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne when cooking the garlic for a little heat.

What can I substitute for Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great alternatives if you want a slightly sharper cheese flavor.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for a hearty beefy twist.
One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta if you’re craving bold, spicy flavors.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a comforting veggie-packed option.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for a family-style favorite.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for extra cheesy indulgence.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different pasta? Add mushrooms or spinach?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.