Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, savory, and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, garlic, and parmesan cheese, all nestled on a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is a family favorite, delivering a rich, flavorful experience in every bite. The garlic parmesan sauce, creamy and velvety, coats both the chicken and pasta, making each forkful an indulgent delight.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner at home, and the rich aroma of garlic and parmesan filled the kitchen, instantly making everyone hungry. What’s amazing about this dish is how simple it is to prepare with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.

The creamy sauce perfectly complements the savory chicken and pasta, making it a comforting dish that’s always a hit. If you’re a fan of Italian-inspired flavors, this recipe is a must-try!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Family gatherings
  • Date nights
  • Meal prep
  • Lovers of garlic and parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here’s why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will become your go-to dinner:

  • Creamy and Flavorful Sauce: The rich garlic parmesan sauce is packed with flavor, with the perfect balance of garlic, parmesan, and creaminess.
  • Tender Chicken: The chicken is perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender, adding a satisfying protein element to the dish.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to make, taking just under 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • One-Pan Meal: The chicken and pasta are all cooked in one pan, making cleanup easy while keeping the flavors together.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables, switch up the type of pasta, or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 600-700 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

  • 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 12 ounces of pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chicken broth (or more if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the ideal choice for this dish, as they cook quickly and stay tender.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic is the star of this recipe, providing a bold, aromatic flavor that infuses the entire dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the sauce its rich, savory depth and a smooth, creamy texture when melted.
  • Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness to the sauce, making it perfectly smooth and velvety.
  • Pasta: Choose your favorite pasta; penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti all work well with the creamy sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  2. Add the Cream and Chicken Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Add the Parmesan and Butter: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and butter. Continue to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
  2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Finish the Dish:

  1. Slice the Chicken: While the pasta is mixing with the sauce, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips.
  2. Serve: Serve the pasta on plates, topping each with sliced chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

  • With a Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
  • For Meal Prep: This pasta holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
  • As a Family Meal: This dish is perfect for feeding a group, making it a great choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Additional Tips Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are some tips to make your recipe even better:

  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked, as it can dry out.
  • Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add more parmesan or reduce the cream slightly. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is great for adjusting the consistency of the sauce, so be sure to save a cup before draining.
  • Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Recipe Variations Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

  • Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist on the classic recipe.
  • Chicken and Broccoli Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Add steamed broccoli to the pasta for a healthy, vegetable-filled version.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for an added burst of flavor.
  • Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach to the sauce for a nutrient-packed variation.
  • Bacon Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory touch.
  • Mushroom Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a richer, earthy flavor.
  • Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist that complements the garlic and parmesan.
  • Gluten-Free Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Zucchini Noodles with Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Swap regular pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
  • Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Pesto: Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto into the sauce for an herby, flavorful version.

Freezing and Storage Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, adding a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.

Special Equipment Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta easier:

  • Large Skillet: A wide skillet is ideal for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
  • Pasta Pot: Use a large pot to cook your pasta, ensuring it has enough space to cook evenly.
  • Grater: Freshly grated parmesan makes a big difference in the flavor and texture of the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

  1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. You can also use pre-cooked chicken for a quicker version.
  2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Absolutely! Any type of pasta will work, including fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne.
  3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before adding pasta.
  4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    You can use a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast in place of the parmesan for a dairy-free version.
  5. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
    Make sure the cream is added slowly and the heat is kept low when simmering. Stir frequently to prevent curdling.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, garlicky goodness with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing together rich flavors that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.

The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce coats each piece of pasta, creating a flavorful, savory experience in every bite. You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s a satisfying meal that’s simple to make, but full of comforting, crave-worthy flavors.

I’d love to see how your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!