How To Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta In Air Fryer

Intro: My Story Behind This Dish

I remember the first time I stumbled into my tiny apartment kitchen, hungry after a long day and craving comfort. I had chicken tenderloins, a box of pasta, and a dream. Little did I know that out of this simple setup, I’d create what would become my favorite comfort meal Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in air fryer. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness with juicy bites of chicken, and it’s so quick you can pull it off in under 30 minutes even on a busy weeknight.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in Air Fryer
Easy 30-minute creamy garlic chicken pasta

As someone always searching for Good Easy Dinners, I wanted a recipe that was fast, satisfying, and made with things already in my fridge. So, if you’re someone who’s googled “Things To Make For Dinner Easy” more than once, this one’s for you.

This article not only walks you through the recipe but also gives you plenty of Dinner For One Ideas, Easy Meals For The Week, and tasty Dinner With Chicken Tenderloins that will change the way you look at quick homemade dinners.

Don’t miss our Quick and Easy Butter Chicken if you’re looking for another cozy favorite.

Why Creamy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in air fryer Is the Ultimate Good Easy Dinner

A Fast, Comforting Classic

This creamy garlic chicken pasta isn’t just flavorful it’s built for busy people who want Easy Homemade Dinner options. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or family, it’s a win.

The Power of the Air Fryer

Using the air fryer means no babysitting a pan. It’s hands-off cooking that still delivers juicy chicken tenderloins and crispy edges that pack flavor into every bite. Looking for inspiration? Try our Air Fryer Chicken Tenders for more chicken air fryer magic.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in Air Fryer

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in Air Fryer

SARAH
This 30-minute air fryer recipe combines juicy chicken tenderloins, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for the ultimate weeknight comfort food easy, budget-friendly, and picky-eater approved.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cooked pasta penne or fettuccine
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Toss chicken tenderloins in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place seasoned chicken in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • While chicken cooks, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute.
  • Stir in grated parmesan cheese. Let it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Remove from heat.
  • Slice cooked chicken. Combine with cooked pasta and pour the garlic parmesan sauce over it. Mix well.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

To make it spicy, add chili flakes or cayenne to the sauce. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in air fryer or microwave. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 34gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 490mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 580IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 160mgIron: 1.8mg
Keyword Air Fryer, Chicken Pasta, Creamy, Easy Dinner, Garlic Parmesan
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Ingredients for Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in air fryer

What You’ll Need

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine work best)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

These basic ingredients are pantry staples in many homes, making this one of the easiest Meal Ideas Chicken fans will adore.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Toss your chicken tenderloins in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in your air fryer at 375°F for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway. Want variety? Dump and Go Teriyaki Chicken is another great twist.

Seasoned chicken tenderloins ready for air fryer
Chicken tenderloins seasoned and prepped

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

While the chicken cooks, heat the heavy cream in a small pan. Add in garlic, simmer, then stir in parmesan. Let it melt into a rich, velvety sauce.

Stirring creamy garlic parmesan sauce
Melting parmesan into garlic cream sauce

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Once your chicken is golden and cooked through, slice it and toss with your pasta and sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and boom! Dinner is served.

Why Chicken Tenderloins Work Best for Dinner For Teens or One

Faster Cooking Time

Because they’re smaller and more uniform in size, chicken tenderloins cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer perfect for a 30-minute meal.

Juiciness and Texture

They remain tender and soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness, which makes them ideal when you’re looking for Food Ideas With Chicken.

Weekly Planning: Easy Meals for the Week With Pasta and Chicken

Batch Cook This Meal

You can easily scale this recipe and store portions in containers. It holds up great in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Pair With Other Dinners

Discover great ideas like High Protein Summer Dinners to build out a full week’s worth of Easy Meals For The Week.

Dinner For One Ideas: Turning Leftovers into New Meals

Chicken Parmesan Bowl

Turn your leftover pasta into a cheesy chicken bowl by reheating in the air fryer and adding more parmesan on top.

Garlic Chicken Sandwich

Use sliced chicken and creamy sauce on toasted garlic bread for an indulgent sandwich idea.

Check out Beginner-Friendly Air Fryer Recipes if you’re new to cooking solo!

Tips to Customize Your Easy Homemade Dinner

Swap the Pasta

Try this with zucchini noodles, penne, or even stuffed shells for something different.

Go Spicy

Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne to give your creamy garlic sauce a fiery twist.

Nutritional Info and Quick Comparison

NutrientPer Serving (Est.)
Calories420
Protein34g
Carbs25g
Fat22g

This meal checks all the boxes protein-rich, low effort, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for teens, busy workers, and solo foodies!

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in air fryer

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work best. They hold onto the creamy garlic parmesan sauce well.

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?

Yes! Just thaw them before air frying to ensure even cooking.

How do I reheat this meal?

Pop it in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 90 seconds

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze portions for up to 2 months and reheat as needed.

Can I make it low-carb?

Use zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta instead of regular pasta.

What else can I make with chicken tenderloins?

Don’t miss our Best Air Fryer Chicken Recipes for more tasty ideas!

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