When you’re craving a comforting meal, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate solution. Combining the bold flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and creamy pasta, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight.
For those who love simple recipes with big flavors, check out this Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe for another comforting dinner idea. If you’re exploring quick chicken meals, the Cheesy Chicken Sloppy Joe Recipe might also be a great option.
Ingredients You Need for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To make this rich and creamy pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced or substituted with boneless thighs.
- Pasta: Penne or spaghetti works best.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic for a bold flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for better texture.
- Heavy Cream: For the creamy base, or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
- Spices: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Optional ingredients include spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Chicken Pasta
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and let rest.
2. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour and cook until golden. Slowly add heavy cream while stirring to avoid lumps.
3. Combine and Serve
- Stir parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it evenly.
- Slice the chicken and layer it on top of the pasta. Garnish with additional parmesan and fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Avoid pre-grated cheese as it doesn’t melt well.
- Don’t Overcook Garlic: Sauté only until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Add Greens: Toss in spinach or arugula for extra color and nutrients.
- Use Pasta Water: Add a splash to the sauce for a silkier texture.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
- A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
For another delightful meal pairing, try this Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe as a dessert option!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder.
What’s the best type of pasta to use?
Short pasta like penne or rotini holds the sauce well, but long pasta like fettuccine also works.
How can I make the dish lighter?
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or almond milk for a lower-calorie option.
Can I add other proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, bacon, or even tofu are excellent additions to this dish.
Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This dish is a winner because it’s:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
- Irresistibly Delicious: Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy.
For more easy-to-make and flavorful recipes, explore the variety at Best Tasting Recipes, where every meal is crafted to be unforgettable!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Easy Dinner Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfectly seasoned with garlic and Parmesan. The dish is both luxurious and easy to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
The combination of creamy textures and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. This simple yet delicious recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: italian
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and then add the drained pasta. Stir to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Searing chicken to golden perfection for your garlic parmesan pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken pasta
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