Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: A Cozy Under $10 Dinner

Ever have one of those nights where you’re staring into the pantry, wondering what on earth to make for dinner that’s both comforting and doesn’t require a ton of effort? You want something that feels a little special but won’t break the bank or keep you chained to the stove for hours. That’s where this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta comes in. It’s my family’s go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes way more indulgent than it is. And the best part? It’s an incredible under $10 dinner that comes together in one pan.

Top Reasons To Make It

This recipe is a weeknight hero for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy. We’re talking about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick dinner idea. Second, it’s budget-friendly. Using simple, affordable ingredients means you can whip up a family-sized portion without a big grocery haul. It’s also a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to actually relax after a long day. And honestly? The creamy, garlicky sauce is just so good. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: For lean, quick-cooking protein.
• Salt and black pepper: To season the chicken perfectly.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and building flavor.
• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine: The ideal pasta for holding onto that creamy sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show for that classic flavor.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Forms the base of our rich sauce.
• 1 cup half-and-half: Creates a luxuriously creamy texture without being too heavy.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory depth.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A simple blend for herby notes.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: For a pop of color and a healthy boost.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): A bright garnish to finish.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the water heats, season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes.
7. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and fresh spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach is wilted and everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips

• Prep your ingredients before you start cooking (mise en place!). It makes the process flow so smoothly.
• Don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente is best since it will continue to soak up a bit of the sauce.
• Use a box grater to grate your own Parmesan. It melts so much better than the pre-shredded stuff.
• If the sauce seems too thick when you add the pasta, just splash in a little extra broth or half-and-half to loosen it up.
• Get the kids involved! My youngest loves adding the spinach and watching it wilt into the dish.
• And remember, a joyful mess in the kitchen is a sign of a meal made with heart.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for sliced mushrooms and use vegetable broth. If you’re out of half-and-half, whole milk will work, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. Feel free to toss in other veggies you have on hand—broccoli florets, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas would all be fantastic. For a dairy-free version, use your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk and a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative. Honestly, if you hate heat, skip the cayenne, but a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice little kick.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This creamy garlic chicken pasta is a complete meal all on its own, but a simple side can round it out nicely. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. For something heartier, garlic bread is never a wrong answer. It’s also great with a side of roasted green beans or asparagus. It’s one of those easy dinner dishes that everyone at the table will love.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will continue to absorb the sauce, so when reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy consistency. You can microwave it, but stir it well halfway through. I don’t recommend freezing this one, as the dairy-based sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half? Absolutely! It will make the sauce even richer and more decadent.
• What are some other healthy dinner ideas I can try? This recipe is a great start! You can also try sheet pan fajitas or a hearty lentil soup for other easy meals.
• What if I don’t have fresh spinach? A cup of frozen peas, thawed, would be a lovely substitute and add a sweet pop of color.
• Is this one of those cheap dinners for a family? It sure is. The ingredients are pantry staples and affordable proteins, making it a budget-friendly winner.

I hope this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta becomes a new favorite in your rotation of easy weeknight dinners. It’s proof that a delicious, soulful meal doesn’t require fancy techniques or expensive ingredients—just a little patience and a whole lot of heart.