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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 6 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe features tender, breaded chicken cutlets cooked to perfection and served over a creamy garlic parmesan sauce with penne pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting Italian-American dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into thin cutlets)
  • 1/3 cup Italian style bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more as needed)

Pasta

  • 16 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)

Garlic Cream Sauce

  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Garnish

  • Chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut or pound the chicken breasts into thin cutlets. In a bowl, combine Italian bread crumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, and salt. Generously coat each side of the chicken cutlets with this mixture.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. When hot, add chicken cutlets without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving, then flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside. Cook in batches if necessary, adding more olive oil as needed.
  4. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and stir until melted. Add pressed garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook, mixing well to form a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 60-90 seconds until the sauce thickens.
  5. Finish the Sauce: Add salt and pepper. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce back to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese and let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until thick and creamy.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked, drained pasta with the garlic parmesan cream sauce ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
  7. Serve: Plate the sauced pasta and serve the chicken cutlets whole or sliced on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your flavorful garlic parmesan chicken pasta!

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Do not overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken to achieve a nice crust.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but sauce will be less rich.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.