There’s nothing quite like the aroma of sizzling garlic and melting Parmesan wafting through your kitchen. Imagine twirling forkfuls of creamy, buttery pasta that envelop tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavor with every bite. This is not just any dish; it’s parmesan garlic chicken pasta, a comforting delight that transforms any ordinary day into a special occasion.
Every time I whip up this dish, memories flood back to cozy family dinners where laughter mingled with the clinking of forks. The kids would fight over who got the last piece of chicken, while my husband insisted on seconds—just to watch me roll my eyes in mock exasperation. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress and bring everyone together for an unforgettable meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delicious parmesan garlic chicken pasta comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights
- The rich flavors create a satisfying and hearty meal that pleases everyone at the table
- With its creamy texture and enticing aroma, it’s visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on your pantry staples!
There’s a certain magic in how this recipe brings people to the table; my friends still rave about the time I made this for game night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
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Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; fresh is always better than pre-minced.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for that fresh taste; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
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Pasta of Your Choice: I love fettuccine, but spaghetti or penne will work just as well.
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Heavy Cream: This is the secret to creating a rich and luscious sauce that clings to every noodle.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle adds flavor; choose high-quality extra virgin for best results.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these staples!
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Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds color and brightness to the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the garlic finely so it releases its aromatic oils easily as it cooks.
Cook Your Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to help adjust sauce consistency later.
Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side—then remove from pan.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously.
Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
Toss It All Together: Slice cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss everything together until each strand is coated in creamy goodness. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This creamy parmesan garlic chicken pasta is a weeknight savior; it’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser
- With its rich flavors and comforting textures, you’ll find yourself making it again and again
- Plus, it pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken until golden brown first. Then cook the pasta while you prepare the creamy sauce for maximum flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F
- Avoid overcooking your pasta; al dente is key!
- Lastly, freshly grated parmesan will elevate the dish significantly compared to pre-grated versions
The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it within minutes! Their delighted reactions made me realize I had stumbled upon something special.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta for parmesan garlic chicken pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta and adding more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
What should I serve with parmesan garlic chicken pasta?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy dish.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta, a quick and easy dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic garlic, this pasta dish delights everyone at the table. Ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings, it’s a family favorite that brings warmth and joy to every culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients; finely chop garlic.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve some water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side). Remove from pan.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Add heavy cream and simmer gently.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet with drained pasta. Toss to coat evenly and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
