Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Imagine twirling your fork around a luscious, creamy nest of pasta, each strand coated in a decadent garlic parmesan sauce. Add tender, juicy chicken pieces, and you have a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion that requires minimal effort but maximum deliciousness. Get ready for a dish so good, you might just want to lick the plate clean (we won’t judge!).

This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a winner because:

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food, fast.
• The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is rich and flavorful, blanketing the pasta and chicken in pure deliciousness.
• It’s visually appealing, with the golden-brown chicken, glistening pasta, and vibrant green parsley creating a feast for the eyes.
• You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses to make it your own signature dish.

Ingredients for Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick and easy cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Pasta Use your favorite pasta shape! Penne, fettuccine, spaghetti, or rotini all work well. Choose a high-quality pasta for the best texture.

Garlic Freshly minced garlic is key to the authentic garlic parmesan flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic!

Heavy Cream This is what makes the sauce so creamy and decadent. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Use a good quality Parmesan for the best results.

Chicken Broth This adds depth of flavor to the sauce and helps to thin it out. You can use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.

Butter Butter adds richness and helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content.

Olive Oil Use olive oil to saute the chicken and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity flavor, but regular olive oil works just as well.

Italian Seasoning This adds a blend of herbs that complements the garlic and Parmesan flavors. You can also use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.

Salt and Pepper Season to taste! These are essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

Fresh Parsley Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Chop it finely and sprinkle it over the pasta before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is perfect served hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve pasta perfection, sear the chicken first to lock in the juices. While the chicken rests, get your pasta al dente. Finally, craft the creamy garlic parmesan sauce and toss everything together for a harmonious culinary symphony.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap the chicken for shrimp or add roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers. For an extra zing, sprinkle red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Unleash your inner chef!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to maintain its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for best results.

Here are some tips to elevate your Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; work in batches to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust for maximum flavor.
• Reserve some pasta water before draining. Its starchiness will help bind the sauce to the pasta, creating an even creamier texture.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. A little extra parmesan or a pinch of salt can make all the difference in the final dish.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My friends devoured this dish at my last dinner party! One of them even said it was the best pasta they’d ever had. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Conclusion for Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe :

This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any night of the week. Its quick preparation and simple ingredients make it a go-to choice when time is short, but you still crave a delicious and comforting meal. Remember you can easily adapt this recipe based on your preferences, whether you’re swapping pasta shapes, lightening up the sauce, or adding a vibrant mix of vegetables. This chicken pasta is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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FAQs :

Can I use different types of pasta for this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with classic pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine, feel free to experiment. Penne, rotini, or even farfalle (bow tie) pasta work beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. The beauty of this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its versatility. Using different pasta shapes can change the texture and mouthfeel of the dish, adding a fun twist to a familiar favorite. So go ahead, unleash your inner pasta artist and see what creations you can conjure up!

What can I substitute for heavy cream to make this garlic parmesan chicken pasta lighter?

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit without sacrificing that creamy texture, consider using half-and-half or even a combination of milk and a little cornstarch. For a dairy-free version, cashew cream or a full-fat coconut milk can be fantastic substitutes. Just remember that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly. The richness of heavy cream is part of the charm of this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, but these alternatives offer a lighter, yet still delicious, option for those watching their calorie intake or seeking a dairy-free alternative.

How can I store leftover garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

Storing leftover Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a breeze! Simply transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwaving works fine, but for best results, reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat. This helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery. Storing it properly ensures that you can enjoy this delicious dish again later in the week.

Is it possible to add vegetables to this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a brilliant way to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile of this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. Broccoli florets, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, peas, or even roasted bell peppers would all be fantastic additions. Simply stir them into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften and absorb the flavors. Not only does this make the dish healthier, but it also adds color and texture, transforming it into a complete and satisfying meal. Feel free to get creative and use whatever veggies you have on hand!