On this page
Some nights you want something cosy and filling without spending an hour in the kitchen. This creamy garlic chicken pasta is exactly that: one pan for the sauce, one pot for the pasta, and dinner is ready in about 25 minutes.
The sauce is built on plenty of garlic, cream and cheese, with a pinch of chilli flakes to keep it from feeling heavy. The real trick is the pasta water — a few splashes of that starchy liquid turn the sauce silky and help it cling to the pasta instead of sliding off.
Make it your own
This is a very forgiving recipe. Swap chicken for prawns (cook them just 2 minutes), add sun-dried tomatoes or broccoli, or use whatever cheese you have. It's also a great way to use up leftover roast chicken — just add it at the end to warm through.
The recipe
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
A one-pan creamy garlic chicken pasta ready in 25 minutes — tender chicken, silky parmesan sauce and a hint of chilli. Easy weeknight dinner.
Instructions
Tap a step to mark it done · tap ⏱ to start a timer.
- Boil the pasta in well-salted water until just al dente. Before draining, save 1 cup of pasta water.
- Season the chicken with half the salt, pepper and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large pan and cook the chicken on medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
- In the same pan, melt the butter and fry the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant — don't let it brown.
- Pour in the cream and milk, add chilli flakes, oregano and remaining salt. Simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the spinach, cooked pasta and chicken. Toss well, loosening with splashes of pasta water until the sauce is glossy. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
- Calories
- 640
- Protein
- 38 g
- Carbs
- 58 g
- Fat
- 28 g
Tips for the best Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Starchy pasta water is the secret to a smooth, restaurant-style sauce that coats every piece.
- If using cheddar instead of parmesan, add it off the heat so it doesn't turn grainy.
- Add sautéed mushrooms with the garlic for an even heartier dish.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make it without cream?
Yes — use 1 1/2 cups of full-fat milk and stir in 1 tablespoon of flour with the garlic to thicken the sauce.
What pasta works best?
Penne, fettuccine and rigatoni all hold the creamy sauce well.
