Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to weeknight dinner: Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together succulent chicken, fragrant garlic, and bright fresh herbs in a velvety sauce, all tossed with tender penne. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a burst of flavor in every bite, proving that the simplest ingredients can create pure magic on your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

If you peek into your pantry and fridge, you’ll likely find almost everything you need for Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta right now. Each ingredient may look basic on its own, but together they join forces to deliver an irresistibly creamy, savory, and satisfying dish with just the right hint of herbs and cheese.

• Penne Pasta: The perfect shape to soak up creamy sauce; feel free to substitute with any short pasta you have on hand.
• Olive Oil: Lends a fruity richness and gets the chicken delightfully golden.
• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, it takes on the savory flavors of garlic and herbs beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in the chicken and sauce.
• Garlic: The superstar performer that gives this pasta its signature fragrance and flavor punch.
• Italian Seasoning: An aromatic blend that infuses everything with herby depth, tying all the flavors together.
• Butter: Creates the luscious base for your creamy sauce and adds that classic richness.
• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce to just the right, luxurious consistency.
• Milk: Adds creamy body without being too heavy—whole milk gives the best texture.
• Heavy Cream: Where all the decadence happens; makes the sauce smooth and dreamy.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts right in for ultra-cheesy gooeyness and an irresistible finish.
• Chopped Parsley or Fresh Herbs: Brings brightness and a fresh, colorful lift to every forkful.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, drop in your penne, and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy once combined with the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your favorite skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cubed chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and sauté until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. This step is where the chicken soaks in all the aromatic flavors and becomes deliciously savory. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic

Turn the heat to low, then add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Let it cook for about a minute, stirring constantly—just enough to become fragrant and mellow without burning. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells incredible.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter until it’s foamy, then whisk in the flour. Let this cook for a minute—it forms a roux that’s the secret to a luxurious, lump-free sauce. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking the whole time to keep things smooth. Let this simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the back of your spoon.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Chicken

Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and the sauce is velvety. Now, return the sautéed chicken to the pan, along with the cooked pasta. Gently toss everything so the pasta and chicken are generously coated in sauce, then finish by stirring in the fresh parsley or herbs.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Take your Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta to the next level with a sprinkle of extra chopped herbs, a crack of black pepper, or even a shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Lemon zest adds a pop of brightness if you want something extra special.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or serve alongside buttery garlic bread for ultimate comfort. Roasted asparagus or simply steamed broccoli also make wonderfully complementary sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Twirl a mound of Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe or portion it into ramekins, topped with a little extra mozzarella and broiled until bubbly for an elegant twist. Serving family-style in a big serving dish always invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors really meld together, making the pasta even more irresistible the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions for up to two months, but be sure to cool the pasta completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. For best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy sauce. You can also microwave single portions, stirring every minute to ensure even heating and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is wonderful for catching the creamy sauce, any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or fusilli works just as well—feel free to use your favorite or what you have on hand.

How can I make Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta lighter?

Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half, or use all milk—just note the sauce will be a touch less rich, but still delicious. You can also use part-skim mozzarella if you’re looking to cut calories.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply skip the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based alternative. Keep all the same steps for a creamy, herby vegetarian pasta.

What herbs are best if I don’t have parsley?

Basil, chives, or even fresh oregano make fantastic substitutes. You can mix and match fresh herbs based on your taste and availability for a personal touch.

Can I prep any part of Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta in advance?

Sure! You can cook the chicken and even make the sauce ahead—the flavors only get better. Store them separately, and reheat gently before assembling with fresh-cooked pasta.

Final Thoughts

I can’t think of a cozier way to bring everyone together at the table than with Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta. It’s simple, soul-warming, and irresistibly good—try it once, and I promise you’ll find yourself making it on repeat. Give it a go and make dinnertime just a little more magical!

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