Introduction to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Come on, guys, if you’re anything like me, some days have been a total whirlwind. So here it is, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s really not a dish but a warm hug in the bowl to see you through those crazy nights with loved ones. Well, that and workweek dinners for most of us; thankfully, this takes only 30 minutes to throw together. Think of the garlic and parmesan butter melting—it’s enough to make your mouth water just thinking about it wafting through your house! Creamy pasta does not speak otherwise the pickiest those sorts of food items will kind of smile – hell, even the pickiest eater! So let’s make this yummy yet simple recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s an effortless dish that comes together in a flash, all while delivering unforgettable flavors. The creamy sauce coats each tender piece of chicken and pasta beautifully, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to win over even the fussiest eaters at your table. You’ll find yourself making this dish again and again!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Gather your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen! Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, it’s perfect for sautéing and adds a lovely flavor twist.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, they soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors of your dish.
- Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse that rich garlic flavor without peeling and chopping.
- Italian seasoning: This blend gives an aromatic hint of herbs; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced, they bring vibrant flavor to the dish and a lovely aroma.
- Chicken broth: A great base for your sauce, lending depth and savoriness.
- Milk: Helps to form a creamy sauce that doesn’t overpower the dish.
- Heavy cream: The star of the show! This ingredient makes the sauce beautifully rich and luxurious.
- Pasta: Choose from penne, rotini, or fusilli. They all work beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best, as it melts perfectly into the sauce, adding that cheesy goodness.
- Butter: Adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce—don’t skip it!
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for freshness or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat!
If you want exact measurements, you’ll find them listed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
First things first, we need to cook the chicken. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it’s warming up, season your cubed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This step gives your chicken a flavorful kick!
Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be heavenly! When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. You want to keep all those delightful juices for the next step.
Step 2: Sautéing the Garlic
Next, in that same skillet, add the 4 minced garlic cloves. Oh boy, I love this part! Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. It’s amazing how one ingredient can transform the air in your kitchen!
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
Now it’s time to create the creamy sauce. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir the mixture gently, allowing it to blend beautifully. Bring it to a simmer; you’ll see the magic begin!
Step 4: Adding the Pasta
Once your sauce is simmering, it’s time to add the pasta. Toss in 2 cups of uncooked pasta and stir to coat it well. Cook it uncovered for about 10–12 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! You want the pasta to be tender and to soak up that delightful sauce.
Step 5: Combining Ingredients
After the pasta is cooked just right, it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in the cooked chicken, 1 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Mix it all well until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and dreamy!
Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. This might be a good time to throw in a pinch of extra salt or pepper if you feel it needs a little boost. Once you’re happy with it, garnish your pasta with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
And voilà! You now have a plate of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; it makes all the difference.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking the chicken; it keeps it juicy.
- Feel free to taste your sauce throughout; it helps personalize the flavor.
- For even creamier sauce, consider using half and half instead of milk.
- Mix in leftover veggies like spinach for added nutrition and color!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: This is essential for cooking the chicken and sauce. A non-stick one works great!
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface.
- Measuring cups: Use these to measure out your liquids and pasta accurately.
- Cutting board: A must-have for chopping your garlic and chicken.
Variations on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Vegetable Lovers: Add fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or broccoli to up the nutrition and flavor!
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or grilled salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added freshness and aroma.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Milky Richness: For a kick of flavor, substitute half of the heavy cream with a tangy cream cheese.
- Spicy Flavor: Add diced jalapeño or crushed red pepper for a spicy zing that will make your taste buds dance!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Side salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad to balance the richness.
- Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch.
- Wine pairing: A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of grated parmesan and fresh parsley makes for a stunning presentation!
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is versatile. You can use penne, rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, consider using less heavy cream and substituting with half and half or even plain yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of cheese for a similar flavor.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepped in advance, stored in the fridge, and reheated before serving. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce when stored.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrition and a delightful twist. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the taste beautifully!
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, kids usually love Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s a discreet way to introduce a little garlic and herbs into their diets.
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about creating moments. Picture gathering around the dinner table, laughter echoing as you share stories over this delicious meal. The creamy, cheesy sauce wrapping around tender chicken and pasta feels like a warm embrace, doesn’t it? This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or busy weeknights. I hope it becomes a beloved recipe in your home, bringing joy and comfort to your family. Now, let’s get cooking and enjoy every delicious bite together!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious creamy pasta dish made with garlic, parmesan cheese, and succulent chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Optional: chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Add pasta and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and sauce starts to thicken.
- Stir in parmesan cheese, butter, and cooked chicken. Mix well until everything is creamy and coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes and serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute the pasta type according to your preference.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- For added flavor, consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
