If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the answer. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich parmesan cheese, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 lb pasta (fettuccine or penne work great)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy sauce)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
You can also substitute ingredients depending on your dietary preferences. For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for milk or half-and-half, or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then sauté them until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it has a little bite. Drain the pasta but reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly (about 4-5 minutes).
Once thickened, stir in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Allow the pasta to heat through for 2-3 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan for a flavorful finish.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, you can add more heavy cream or even a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Adjust the Garlic: Love garlic? Feel free to add more! You can also use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
- Vegetables: Throw in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a nutritious twist.
- Leftover Chicken: This dish works wonderfully with leftover roasted or grilled chicken. Just shred it and add it to the sauce.
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
There are countless ways to customize this dish based on your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some variations to consider:
Healthier Alternatives
Swap heavy cream for light cream or half-and-half, and use whole wheat pasta. You can also grill or bake the chicken instead of frying it for a lower-fat option.
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you love baked pasta, try turning this recipe into a casserole. Simply transfer the garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a baking dish, top with extra parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
For an even easier version, try making this dish in one pot. Start by browning the chicken, then add the pasta, broth, cream, and garlic directly into the skillet. Simmer everything together until the pasta is cooked and the sauce is thickened.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I substitute other types of pasta in garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Yes! This recipe works well with many types of pasta, including spaghetti, linguine, or even gluten-free varieties. Choose your favorite!
2. What’s the best way to reheat garlic parmesan chicken pasta?
Reheat your pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
3. How can I make this dish healthier?
To make a healthier version, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, use light cream or milk, and bake or grill the chicken instead of sautéing it in oil.
4. Can I prepare this garlic parmesan chicken pasta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and warm everything together in a skillet.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a delicious pasta dish that will leave your family asking for seconds. Try it out tonight and see why this recipe is trending!
Related posts: