Creamy Garlic Pasta with Seared Chicken

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

1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, drain, and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
2. Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat oil and sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Make Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter, sauté garlic, then stir in cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. 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.

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