Ingredients:

• For the Chicken and Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Pasta:
  • 8 oz rotini pasta, cooked al dente
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breast strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can create a bitter taste.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to deglaze the pan and add flavor to the sauce.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
3. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

1. Add the cooked rotini pasta and the cooked chicken strips to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
2. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Note: Based on approximately 4 servings

• Calories: ~600 kcal
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Sugar: 3g

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, any pasta that holds sauce well, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle, can be used. The texture and flavor will remain delicious with any pasta choice.

Q: Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
A: Absolutely! Half-and-half or whole milk can be used as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes make great additions. Simply add them to the skillet during Step 3 to cook in the sauce.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free pasta variety to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the chicken broth, are also certified gluten-free.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

1. Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-grated varieties, creating a creamier consistency.
2. Season the Chicken Well: Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before cooking ensures each bite is flavorful and delicious.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
4. Cook the Garlic Gently: Garlic burns quickly, so be cautious while sautéing it. Lower the heat if necessary to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
5. Customize the Herbs: For added flavor, consider adding basil or oregano along with the Italian seasoning.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

Freezer: Although cream-based sauces don’t typically freeze well, you can freeze this dish. The sauce may separate slightly, but reheating it slowly while stirring can help regain its creamy texture. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tip: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop for the best results. Stirring frequently and adding a bit of milk or broth can help maintain a creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken, rich cheese, and a perfectly seasoned sauce. It’s easy to make and full of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it with different pasta shapes, herbs, and even vegetables to suit your taste. Whether it’s for a family meal or a special dinner, this creamy pasta dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!