Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting and rich dish that combines the delicious flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and pasta, then this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is your answer. This recipe seamlessly blends creamy goodness with the aromatic essence of garlic, making it a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is bound to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this scrumptious meal right at home.
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is Worth Your Time
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary experience that balances flavor and comfort. The creamy sauce, enriched with parmesan, coats every twist of pasta and tender piece of chicken, creating a delightful mouthfeel. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. The combination of garlic and parmesan is a classic that never fails to please, and making it at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor it to your taste.
Ingredient Checklist
To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing the chicken
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 oz. gluten-free rotini or fusilli pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 oz. cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Equipment at a Glance
You’ll need a few kitchen essentials to whip up this delightful dish:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife for chopping
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gluten-free rotini or fusilli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and brush them lightly with olive oil. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Next, lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it is melted and well combined.
Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth. Add the onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
Step 7: Finish with Chicken and Parmesan
Finally, fold in the sliced chicken and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy coating for the pasta.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
What to Use Instead
If you’re looking to modify the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, consider the following substitutions:
- Chicken: Swap for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta: Use any type of pasta, such as whole wheat or regular, if gluten-free isn’t necessary.
- Heavy cream: Substitute with a plant-based cream or half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Parmesan cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
What I Learned Testing
- Timing is key when cooking the chicken; overcooked chicken can become dry.
- Using fresh garlic really elevates the dish, so don’t skimp on it!
- Adjusting the thickness of the sauce with pasta water is a game changer for achieving the perfect consistency.
- Leftovers can be just as tasty when reheated, making this a great meal for meal prep.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
For optimal freshness, follow these storage tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.
Quick Q&A
Can I use other types of cheese besides parmesan?
Absolutely! You can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for different flavors, but keep in mind that parmesan adds a unique salty kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives to make it dairy-free while still keeping it creamy.
What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
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The Takeaway
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together effortlessly. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Enjoy the creamy texture, the savory garlic notes, and the comforting embrace of parmesan cheese, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta and chicken. This is a recipe that not only satisfies but also invites you to get creative with your ingredients and enjoy the process of cooking. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a dish that truly embodies comfort and flavor.
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gluten-free rotini or fusilli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
- Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and brush them lightly with olive oil. Season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth. Add the onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
- Step 7: Finally, fold in the sliced chicken and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Step 8: Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore creaminess.
