Imagine twirling a fork around a dreamy, creamy garlic chicken pasta dish that practically sings with flavor. The smooth, velvety sauce clings lovingly to each strand of pasta, while tender chicken pieces dance with roasted garlic and herbs, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. You can almost hear the aroma wafting through the kitchen, beckoning friends and family to gather round.
Now, picture this: it’s a cozy Sunday evening, and the smell of simmering garlic fills the air as you prepare your creamy garlic chicken pasta. Memories flood in—like that time your best friend declared it “the best pasta ever!” over an animated dinner conversation filled with laughter and joy. This dish is not just food; it’s an invitation to share moments together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic chicken pasta combines rich flavors and easy prep for a weeknight winner
- It’s visually stunning with its creamy sauce and colorful herbs
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion—romantic dinners or family gatherings!
When I first served this creamy garlic chicken pasta at a family gathering, everyone’s eyes widened in delight at first glance. It became an instant favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for tenderness and quick cooking.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; nothing beats fresh!
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Pasta: Fettuccine or penne works wonderfully; select your favorite shape.
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Heavy Cream: The richer, the better! Adds that luscious creaminess we crave.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
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Herbs (Parsley & Thyme): Fresh herbs bring brightness; don’t skip them for added flavor.
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Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil to sauté your ingredients perfectly.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in your fettuccine or penne until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic & Herbs: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet. Sauté minced garlic in the pan until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then stir in fresh thyme and parsley for aroma.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and herbs. Scrape any bits off the bottom of the pan while bringing it to a gentle simmer—this adds depth of flavor!
Toss Everything Together: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in that heavenly creamy sauce.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate up generous portions of your creamy garlic chicken pasta. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Dive right in!
This creamy garlic chicken pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and laughter!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic chicken pasta is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any weeknight dinner
- With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s not just delicious but also a comforting dish that warms the soul
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy garlic sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and fresh when served.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even add some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Personalize it based on your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your pasta water well; it enhances flavor from the start
- Let the cream simmer gently to avoid curdling, ensuring a smooth sauce
- Finally, don’t rush cooking chicken; it should reach 165°F for safety and tenderness
Cooking this creamy garlic chicken pasta always brings back memories of my best friend’s dinner party where everyone went back for seconds, proving how irresistible it truly is.
FAQ
How can I make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor?
Try whole wheat pasta and add more veggies to boost nutrients and flavor.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu work wonderfully for different tastes and textures.
What can I serve alongside this creamy garlic chicken pasta?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this delightful dish.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings, bringing warmth and joy to any table. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, you’ll be serving up smiles in no time!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the fettuccine or penne until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add heavy cream, scraping the pan's bottom to incorporate flavor bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Combine: Add sliced chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss until well coated.
- Serve: Plate the pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
