Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in a luscious bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, where tender chicken meets a rich, velvety sauce infused with fragrant garlic and aged Parmesan.
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. The combination of rich flavors and creamy texture is sure to delight your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic flavor balanced with nutty Parmesan
- Creamy texture that coats every strand of pasta
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- A comforting dish that the whole family will adore
A Flavorful Symphony
The combination of garlic and Parmesan is a classic that never disappoints. In this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, the garlic is sautéed to perfection, releasing its aromatic qualities that fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent. This rich flavor melds beautifully with the nuttiness of the aged Parmesan, creating a sauce that is both indulgent and satisfying. Each bite is a delightful experience that will leave you craving more.
The use of heavy cream in the sauce lends a silky texture that clings perfectly to the pasta. This creaminess not only enhances the flavors but also elevates a simple meal into something special. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish promises to impress with its luxurious taste and comforting essence.
Cooking Made Simple
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. The preparation is quick, requiring only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, this recipe is flexible. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. The creamy sauce also pairs well with various types of pasta, so feel free to switch it up based on what you have on hand.
Perfect Pairings
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Sauce
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be enjoyed for up to three days when properly stored. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore some of the original creaminess. Stir it gently until heated through, and enjoy it just as much as the first time.
Freezing this dish is also an option, but be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Including chicken in your diet can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of snacking on less healthy options. Coupled with the calcium and vitamin D from the Parmesan cheese, this dish provides a nutritious balance that supports strong bones and overall well-being.
The garlic in this recipe also has numerous health benefits. Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can help ward off illnesses and promote heart health. It’s a flavorful addition that not only enhances the taste but also offers a wealth of nutritional advantages.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with this pasta?
This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
→ How can I make it gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta in this recipe for a gluten-free option.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Indulge in a luscious bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, where tender chicken meets a rich, velvety sauce infused with fragrant garlic and aged Parmesan.
Created by: Lila Morgan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- Salt for boiling water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 43g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g