Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Introduction:
Are you looking for a quick, comforting dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or preparing a weeknight dinner, this creamy, rich, and savory pasta dish will quickly become a favorite. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, this dish brings together the best of both comfort food and gourmet flavors.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a game-changer when it comes to easy, satisfying meals. The garlic parmesan sauce is velvety, indulgent, and filled with robust flavors that cling to the pasta and chicken perfectly. It’s a one-pot dish, so cleanup is a breeze, and the ingredients are simple enough to have on hand at any time. Plus, it’s customizable — you can swap out the chicken for shrimp, add some veggies, or adjust the seasoning to your liking. What more could you want from a weeknight dinner?
Ingredients of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Gather all the fresh ingredients for this delicious pasta:
- Chicken breast 🍗 (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Pasta 🍝 (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
- Olive oil 🛢️
- Butter 🧈
- Garlic 🧄 (minced)
- Heavy cream 🥛
- Chicken broth 🍲
- Parmesan cheese 🧀 (freshly grated)
- Parsley 🌿 (for garnish)
- Salt 🧂
- Pepper 🧂
- Red pepper flakes 🌶️ (optional, for a little heat)
Necessary Tools:
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- A large skillet or sauté pan
- A pot for cooking pasta
- A wooden spoon or spatula
- A grater for the Parmesan cheese (if using a block)
- A measuring cup for liquids
Ingredient Swaps and Additions:
- Protein alternatives: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh.
- Vegetable add-ins: Add spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or peas to introduce more color and nutrition to the dish.
- Pasta variety: While this recipe works well with traditional pasta, gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta can be substituted for a healthier alternative.
- Cheese variations: While Parmesan is the star, adding some freshly grated mozzarella or pecorino Romano can add depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water to help thicken the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking to create a smooth sauce. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Don’t overcook the garlic: Garlic can become bitter if overcooked. Sauté it until fragrant, but avoid letting it brown.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly, so opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer. If it’s too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Perfectly cooked chicken: Don’t overcook the chicken! It should be tender and juicy, not dry.
Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For an added touch of luxury, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper on top before serving.
Check out this Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe for another delicious twist on the creamy garlic parmesan pasta that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
Storing and Reheating:
- Storing: Allow any leftovers to cool before storing them in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 550 per serving (approx.)
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs – Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Q1: Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently to avoid the sauce separating.
Q2: Can I make this dish without cream?
If you want to lighten the recipe, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still taste great.
Q3: What can I use instead of chicken?
Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like tofu.
Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
Q5: Can I freeze this pasta?
While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately. Reheat and combine them with fresh cream for the best texture.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner — rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try variations with different proteins or veggies to make it your own. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a salad, and you have a complete meal that will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
For a quick and healthy meal, try this Salmon Sheet Pan recipe—it’s a perfect one-pan dinner that’s both nutritious and easy to make!
