Easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlicky goodness, this dish is a weeknight winner. I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday when I needed something quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious. This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta was born, and it’s been a family favorite ever since! I’m excited to share it with you. It’s an easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta meal everyone will love!
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Why You Will Love This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Seriously! It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
Why will you adore it? Firstly, it’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Secondly, the flavor is simply extraordinary: rich, creamy, and intensely garlicky. And finally, it’s incredibly comforting, making it the ideal dish for a cozy night in. This creamy garlic parmesan pasta will be a regular in no time.
I recall one evening when my daughter, usually a picky eater, devoured an entire bowl and asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper! This healthy chicken pasta dinner uses simple ingredients to make a flavorful meal.
Ingredients Needed for This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta:
- For the Chicken:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work well)
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* 1/4 cup pasta water
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a fantastic homemade meal:
- 1. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- 2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 3. Make the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- 4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- 5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- 6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty creamy garlic parmesan pasta!
How to Serve This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Serving Tips: Serve hot and fresh for the best flavor. You can preheat the plates for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Pairing Ideas: A crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.
- Topping Recommendations: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or some sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
- Plating Ideas: Arrange the pasta in a nest-like shape on the plate. Top with chicken pieces and garnish with parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How to Store This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
- Refrigeration Instructions: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Guidelines: While it can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Shelf Life Information: Leftovers are best consumed within 3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips to Make This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts, use different types of pasta, or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
- Success Tips: Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key! Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when making the sauce.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Adding cold cream to the hot pan, which can cause the sauce to curdle.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Helpful Notes for This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
- Extra Clarifications: The amount of garlic can be adjusted according to your preference. Start with 4 cloves and add more if desired. Another great tip: Follow this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for a healthy dinner!
- Ingredient Details: Heavy cream is essential for the rich, creamy texture of the sauce. You can use half-and-half, but the results won’t be as decadent.
- Equipment Recommendations: A large skillet and a pot for cooking pasta are the only essential equipment you’ll need.
Variation of This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: Add roasted butternut squash and sage in the fall or fresh peas and asparagus in the spring.
- Optional Versions: Try adding some cooked bacon or prosciutto for a smoky flavor.
- Creative Modifications: Make it spicier by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can even try making it with shrimp instead of chicken. Feeling adventurous? Why not whip up this Classic Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for another comforting dish? And if you like that one you’ll love Classic Chicken Pot Pie Pasta 2!
How do you keep garlic parmesan chicken pasta from being dry?
Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente and reserve some pasta water. The starchy water helps create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta without drying it out.
Can I use different types of pasta for easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Yes, you can! While spaghetti is common, other options like fettuccine, penne, or rotini work well. Choose a shape that will hold the creamy sauce nicely.
What other vegetables can I add to easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Consider adding vegetables like broccoli florets, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté them with the garlic and chicken before adding the sauce.
How long does easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is ready to become a regular meal! With minimal effort, it produces restaurant-quality food. Try adding your touches to this garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Let me know how the recipe turns out in the comments below, and happy cooking!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Ready in 30 Minutes!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and delicious easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe perfect for a weeknight meal. This creamy and flavorful pasta dish is a guaranteed crowd pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup pasta water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
