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4-Ingredient Garlic Chicken Pasta – The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner

This simple garlic chicken pasta combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic sauce into a comforting meal that's ready in about 30 minutes. With only four main ingredients, it's an easy recipe you'll want to keep on regular dinner rotation.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta penne, rotini, or fettuccine
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional but recommended
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
  3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, if using, until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
  9. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  10. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  11. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce.
  • Add spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for extra vegetables.
  • Grilled shrimp can easily replace the chicken for a different variation.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.