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Homemade Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta photo

Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta

This Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta is a creamy, savory delight! A perfect weeknight meal that will win over the whole family.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 2 medium chicken breasts (approx. 20 ounces)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 16 oz. penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
For the Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large shallot (chopped, about 1/2 cup)
  • 4-6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups half and half (or milk whisked with 1 TBS cornstarch or evaporated milk mixed with 2 tsps cornstarch)
  • 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon (powder, crushed cubes, or base)
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups FRESHLY grated Parmesan cheese (packed, use micro grater)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh lemon juice (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot for cooking pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microplane grater for the Parmesan cheese
  • Knife and cutting board for chopping

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they're evenly coated.
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed shallots and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Follow this by adding the half and half, chicken bouillon, dried parsley, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
  6. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing to combine everything evenly. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting bowl of Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta!

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
  • Substitute the half and half with almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter version.
  • If you're looking for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.