Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delectable and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious pasta at home.

The Appeal of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Why It’s a Favorite

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a favorite because of its rich, creamy sauce and the perfect blend of garlic and Parmesan flavors. It’s comfort food at its best, offering a satisfying and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare.

Versatility of the Dish

This pasta dish is versatile and can be customized with different vegetables, types of pasta, or even by adding a bit of spice. It’s a great base recipe that you can adapt to suit your preferences.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Types of Pasta to Use

You can use any type of pasta for this dish. Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work particularly well because they hold the sauce nicely. For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

Cooking the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure to save some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to thicken.

Incorporating the Parmesan

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Adding the Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Slicing the Chicken

Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and add them back to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Toss everything together to combine.

Finishing Touches

Garnishing

Garnish the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle a bit more grated Parmesan on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta dish with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Vegetarian Option

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Add a kick to your pasta by incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Different Occasions

Weeknight Dinner

This pasta is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. It’s easy to prepare and the whole family will love it.

Date Night

Impress your partner with this elegant yet simple dish. Pair it with a bottle of wine and a light dessert for a perfect date night at home.

Storing and Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Proper Storage Techniques

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the stovetop method preserves the texture better.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

For a lower calorie option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.

Healthier Alternatives

Lower Calorie Ingredients

Replace the heavy cream with a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

Vegetable-Packed Version

Add more vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the center.

Curdling the Sauce

When adding the Parmesan cheese, do it gradually and stir continuously to prevent the sauce from curdling.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Pasta

Balancing Flavors

Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. A bit of lemon juice or zest can brighten up the flavors.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting properly.

Pairing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Drinks

Best Beverages to Complement the Dish

Pair this pasta with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon works well.

Alcoholic vs. Non-Alcoholic Options

A light, refreshing beer can also complement the rich flavors of the dish. Non-alcoholic choices like iced tea or lemonade are equally enjoyable.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with everyone. Try this recipe and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

FAQs

Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

How Long Does Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Last?

It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

You can use half-and-half, milk with a bit of cornstarch, or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Gluten-Free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free as long as the ingredients are checked for cross-contamination.

Yield: 4 servings

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delectable and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, savory garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive into how you can make this delicious pasta at home.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• Homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
• 1 stick butter
• 6 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1-3 tablespoons hot sauce depending on your heat preference
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, minced
• Chicken, Pasta & Cream Sauce:
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1.5 lbs chicken breast or tenders
• 2 tbsp poultry seasoning or all-purpose seasoning **see notes for my blend
• 8 oz block cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated or shredded
• 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic bread or breadsticks

Instructions

• Prepare the garlic parmesan sauce by heating butter in a medium bowl until partially melted. Add in remaining ingredients and stir until combined. Set aside.

• Place chicken in a bowl or large zip-top bag along with a few tablespoons of olive oil, tossing them to coat. Add in a few spoonsful of your preferred chicken seasoning** and rub it into all sides of the chicken.

• Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken about 3-4 minutes until well browned. Flip once, reduce heat to low. Add a heaping spoonful of garlic parmesan sauce into the skillet allowing it to melt into the chicken as it cooks.

• Once internal temp reaches 165 degrees (about 6-8 minutes total), toss the chicken in the butter sauce. Set aside under tented foil to rest, then dice into large chunks.

• In the same skillet over medium low, add in the remaining garlic parmesan sauce and the softened cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Cook until cream cheese melts, stirring occasionally.

• Add the diced chicken into the cream sauce tossing well until combined, continuing to simmer. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a pot of salted water according to the package instructions for al dente. Into the cream sauce add the pasta water and cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.

• I like to add in extra parmesan cheese, minced parsley and red pepper flakes before serving. Serve warm with garlic bread or breadsticks.

Notes

**I use a combination of 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.

Crock Pot Instructions:

Add seasoned chicken into the crockpot. Cover the chicken with the garlic parmesan sauce, cubed cream cheese, and cream. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. The chicken should now easily fall apart with two forks, break up the chicken into chunks and toss all ingredients together until combined and sauce is smooth. Keep crock pot on warm.

Cook penne pasta to al dente in salted water then add the pasta directly into the crock pot. Add a handful of extra parmesan along with more minced parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve warm with garlic bread.