There's something captivating about a plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that draws me in every time. The moment you sauté minced garlic in a hot skillet and the irresistible fragrance fills your kitchen, you know something delicious is about to happen. I discovered this dish during a busy week when fast food felt tempting, but I craved comfort and flavor in my home-cooked meal.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease and indulgence, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting feast that even the pickiest eaters will adore. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can savor a creamy, garlicky pasta that elevates weeknight dinners and impresses guests alike. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making a dish that is as delightful to prepare as it is to savor!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 40 minutes.
- The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan create a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Plus, the beautiful presentation of the creamy pasta topped with golden chicken makes it a true showstopper for any dinner party.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• 12 oz pasta – choose your favorite shape, like fettuccine or penne, to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
For the Chicken
• 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) – sautéing until golden adds a delicious flavor that complements the dish.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – this helps achieve a lovely sear on your chicken.
• 2 tablespoon butter – enhances richness and brings a wonderful flavor to the skillet.
For the Sauce
• 4 cloves garlic (minced) – the star of this dish, garlic infuses a delightful aroma and taste.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – this mix adds a herbaceous note that's perfect for the pasta.
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste) – gives a little spice to balance the richness.
For the Creamy Bliss
• 1 cup chicken broth – provides depth and savory notes to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the creamy texture that coats the pasta perfectly.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully, adding a salty, nutty flavor to the dish while thickening the sauce.
Dive into cooking this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and transform your dinner into a delightful experience!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as it will help adjust your sauce later.
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Season and Cook Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat, then sauté the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn—trust me, the aroma will set the stage!
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Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally. The sauce will start to bubble just a bit, releasing deep, inviting scents.
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Stir in Parmesan: Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The cheese will melt and thicken the sauce, creating that irresistible texture.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat, using the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired creaminess. The sauce should cling beautifully to each strand of pasta.
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Finish with Chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, toss gently to combine, and give it a final season with salt and pepper. Serve this delightful dish while it’s warm and creamy!
Optional: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ingredients are perfect for meal prep, helping you to save time during busy weeknights! You can season the chicken breasts and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, ensuring they stay flavorful. The pasta can also be cooked in advance and refrigerated, allowing for easy assembly later on. When ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta gently in a pan with a splash of water before tossing it with the creamy sauce and sautéed garlic. To maintain quality, store each component separately and combine just before serving for a fresh and delicious meal that tastes just as fantastic as if it were made from scratch!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful alternatives!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties like zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta for a tasty twist that everyone can enjoy.
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Veggie-Loaded: Toss in fresh vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli. They not only add color but boost nutrition and flavor.
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Creamy Vegan: Use canned coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a rich, dairy-free delight.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the sauce just before serving, offering a bright, aromatic finish that elevates each bite.
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Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gouda or Fontina for unique flavor profiles that keep your taste buds guessing.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing or toss in some sliced jalapeños for a fiery version that warms the soul.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the dish by incorporating lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice. This fresh touch will awaken your palate!
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Protein Boost: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, scallops, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the dish hearty.
Embrace these variations, and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
A rich and creamy pasta dish deserves the perfect accompaniment to elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: This classic side brings additional garlic flavor and crunchy goodness, perfect for scooping up that delectable sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing complements the rich pasta, offering a delightful contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add vibrant colors and natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh, nutritious touch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Pineapple Mocktail: A fruity mocktail combines the sweet and tart of pineapple, refreshing the palate between bites of this indulgent meal.
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Lemon Sorbet: This light, refreshing dessert offers a zesty finish that cleanses the palate after savoring the rich flavors of the pasta.
These pairings will create a well-rounded meal that truly impresses, inviting your family and friends to relish every bite together!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the pasta has cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce's creaminess. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, ensure to cook your pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- It’s crucial to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices, which will keep it tender and flavorful.
- When sautéing garlic, stir consistently and watch closely to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the dish.
- For the best texture in your sauce, incorporate the Parmesan gradually and adjust the thickness with the reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! The best pasta for this dish is one that holds onto the creamy sauce well. I recommend using fettuccine or penne, as their shapes allow for more sauce to cling. Look for pasta with a slightly rough texture to help catch the delicious garlic and Parmesan sauce!
What is the best way to store leftovers of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Very easy! Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing to retain freshness. If you notice any separation in the sauce, don’t worry; it can be easily remedied during reheating.
Can I freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to save this delicious dish for later. Here’s how: portion the pasta into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick when making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you'd like, don’t fret! Gradually add some of the reserved pasta water while stirring in the skillet. Start with just a couple of tablespoons and stir until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water will help the sauce adhere to the pasta beautifully!
Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta suitable for those with dairy allergies?
If you're serving someone with dairy allergies, I recommend using lactose-free cream and vegan Parmesan alternatives. For best results, carefully check labels to ensure all ingredients are dairy-free. This way, you can still whip up a comforting meal everyone can enjoy!
How can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta healthier?
To give this recipe a nutritious boost, consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the sautéing process. You can also use whole-grain pasta for added fiber. If you're looking for a lower calorie option, you can substitute heavy cream with a combination of unsweetened almond milk and a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce without losing flavor!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, sauté chicken until golden, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Avoid burning.
- Make the Sauce: Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in Parmesan: Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta to skillet, toss to coat, using reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Finish with Chicken: Return sliced chicken to skillet, toss gently and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
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