Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a wonderfully comforting dinner that combines tender chicken with a creamy, flavorful garlic parmesan sauce coating perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles. It’s the kind of dish that hits the spot any night of the week, whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti noodles: for that perfect al dente texture that holds the sauce well.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: known for their lean, tender bite and easy to cook evenly.
• Minced garlic: to bring that aromatic punch and warmth which is essential in any garlic parmesan dish.
• Yellow onion: for a subtle sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• Butter: adds richness and a silky base for the sauce.
• Olive oil: ensures a nice sear on the chicken and helps cook the aromatics without burning.
• Heavy whipping cream: creates the creamy, luscious texture that coats every bite.
• Parmesan cheese: brings sharp, nutty flavors and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Italian seasoning: for that classic herby profile that enhances the chicken.
• Paprika: for a mild smokiness and a hint of color.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: layer in more savory depth without overpowering the fresh garlic.
• Salt and black pepper: for seasoning balance and highlighting all the other flavors.
• Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce: adds an extra boost of bold parmesan garlic flavor that elevates the creamy sauce to something truly special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Chicken:

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, about seven to nine minutes per side to ensure it is cooked through but still juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

Cook Aromatics:

Lower the heat to medium-low and add a teaspoon of olive oil and butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, add diced onions and cook for two to three minutes until softened but not browned. Then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Make the Sauce:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir frequently while adding parmesan cheese. Let the cheese melt into the cream so the sauce becomes smooth and rich. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the Buffalo Wild Wings Parmesan Garlic Sauce to deepen the flavor even more.

Combine Pasta and Chicken:

Add the cooked spaghetti noodles and the diced chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything gently together so the creamy parmesan sauce thoroughly coats the pasta and chicken evenly.

Serve and Enjoy:

Plate your garlic parmesan chicken spaghetti hot and enjoy that perfect harmony of creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken mixed with satisfying pasta.

Save

My favorite ingredient in this recipe has to be the parmesan cheese because it delivers that signature tangy and nutty flavor that turns simple cream and garlic into an irresistible sauce. One special memory with this dish was when I served it at a family gathering and everyone asked for seconds and even thirds because it felt like a warm hug in a bowl.

Storage Tips

Allow the pasta to cool fully before placing it into an airtight container. This prevents the sauce from getting watery and keeps the texture just right. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days and reheat gently to avoid separating the creamy sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have heavy cream, whole milk can substitute nicely for a lighter version although the sauce will be slightly less rich. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. To make the sauce thicker when reheating, stir in a bit more parmesan cheese or simmer uncovered for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with garlic bread to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce and serve a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil for freshness. Adding fresh spinach or thin zucchini slices into the skillet right before combining noodles adds a welcome pop of color and nutrients.

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the pasta and stick to cooking it al dente for the best texture when mixed with the sauce. Toasting the spices lightly on the chicken before cooking adds extra depth, which I learned from experience really makes a difference. For a faster version, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and gently heat it in the sauce to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, making the dish even more succulent while complementing the creamy sauce.

→ What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute whole milk for a lighter version, or add cream cheese with milk to maintain a creamy texture in the sauce.

→ Is pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken okay to use?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save time. Just shred or dice it before adding to the sauce.

→ How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Let the sauce simmer gently to reduce liquid, or stir in additional parmesan or cream cheese to reach desired thickness.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, fresh spinach or zucchini slices work well, providing extra nutrition without overpowering the creamy flavors.