🧄 Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet

This one-skillet wonder brings together juicy chicken, rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and pasta for a comforting, cheesy meal the whole family will love.

⏱️ Quick Snapshot

• Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–45 minutes
• Serves: 4–6

🛒 Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

Pasta & Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
• 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Sauté 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Garlic and Make the Base

• In the same skillet, lower heat to medium.
• Add butter and garlic; cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Liquids and Pasta

• Stir in broth and milk. Bring to a simmer.
• Add uncooked pasta and Italian seasoning.
• Cover and simmer 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

4. Add Cheese & Chicken

• Lower heat. Stir in Parmesan and half the mozzarella until smooth.
• Return chicken to skillet and mix until warmed through.

5. Finish & Serve

• Top with remaining mozzarella. Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted.
• Garnish with parsley or basil. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
• Serve warm with salad or garlic bread.

🧂 Tips & Variations

• Want Extra Creaminess? Add 2 oz cream cheese in step 4.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
• Protein Swap: Use sausage, shrimp, or rotisserie chicken.
• Low-Carb Option: Sub in zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheese Options: Try Gruyère, Fontina, or provolone.

🔁 Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Reheat: On stovetop with splash of milk, or microwave gently.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled portions up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

❓ FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes—just reduce broth to 1 cup, skip the simmering step, and stir in cooked pasta in step 4.

Can I bake this instead?
Yes—assemble up to the cheese step, cover, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and flour or cornstarch for the roux.

✅ Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet checks all the boxes: creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and packed with protein—all in one pan. Perfect for busy nights and totally customizable to suit your cravings.

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