Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (rigatoni or shells); 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan; Salt, pepper, parsley

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Creamy Garlic Pasta with Seared Chicken is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta coated in a velvety garlic sauce, topped with juicy, golden-brown chicken pieces. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and comfort in one bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish offers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The creamy garlic sauce is indulgent without being overpowering, and the seared chicken adds protein and a delicious savory note. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (rigatoni, penne, or shells)
Chicken breast or thighs, cubed
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, grated
Butter
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, drain, and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat oil and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Make Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter, sauté garlic, then stir in cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
Combine and Serve: Toss pasta in sauce, top with seared chicken, and garnish with parsley.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms or spinach
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken
Swap cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Add red pepper flakes for heat
Make it gluten-free with GF pasta

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk. Not recommended for freezing.

FAQs

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like rigatoni or penne holds the sauce well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just slice and warm it before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Add more cheese or reduce it longer on low heat.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The creamy, mild flavor is appealing to children.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a plant-based cream and cheese substitute.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, store components separately and combine when serving.

What herbs pair well with this dish?

Basil, parsley, or thyme all work beautifully.

Is this a one-pot meal?

It can be if you cook the pasta first and reuse the same pot.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Pasta with Seared Chicken is an indulgent yet simple meal perfect for satisfying any pasta lover. With its rich sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a go-to dish for dinner at home that feels a bit special.