This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With tender chicken, a rich garlic and parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a delicious and satisfying meal that comes together quickly. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
-
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
-
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
-
Total Time: 35 minutes
-
Yield: Serves 4
-
Cuisine: Italian, Comfort Food
Full List of Ingredients
For the Chicken:
-
2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta:
-
250g (about 8 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti works best)
-
Salt (for pasta water)
For the Sauce:
-
3 tablespoons butter
-
5 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.
2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella (if using), and cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Add the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce needs thinning, add a bit more pasta water to help coat the noodles. Stir in the cooked chicken and continue to toss until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Serve
Transfer the garlic Parmesan chicken pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
-
Calories: 550
-
Fat: 30g
-
Saturated Fat: 15g
-
Cholesterol: 135mg
-
Sodium: 850mg
-
Carbohydrates: 45g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
Sugars: 3g
-
Protein: 33g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a modern twist on the traditional Italian pasta dishes that use garlic and Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful sauce. The combination of creamy sauce and seasoned chicken makes it a popular dish in Italian-American cuisine. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a weekend.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
-
Rich and Creamy: The garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and creamy, with a perfect balance of cheese and garlic flavors.
-
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a great option for a busy weeknight.
-
Customizable: You can easily add more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to make it your own.
Health Benefits
-
Chicken provides a high-quality source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
-
Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been linked to improved heart health.
-
Parmesan Cheese is high in calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Serving Suggestions
-
With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
-
With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an indulgent meal.
-
For a Complete Meal: Add some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach on the side for extra vegetables.
Cooking Tips
-
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until golden brown and cooked through to avoid dry, tough meat.
-
Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, so try not to use garlic powder for this dish.
-
Customize the Cheese: You can mix and match cheeses for different flavors. For a richer taste, try adding asiago or provolone.
Variations to Try
-
Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
-
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili to the sauce for some heat.
-
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or a lighter cream to reduce the fat content of the sauce.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, cheesy sauce and the tender chicken come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to please everyone.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then reheat them together when ready to serve.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
4. Can I use non-dairy cheese?
Yes, you can use a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’re following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make this dish even more nutritious.
6. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for a more flavorful, juicy option.
8. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
9. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and stir constantly to avoid curdling or separation.
10. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be lighter in texture.