When you take a bite of parmesan garlic chicken pasta, the creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and al dente pasta, creating a symphony of flavors. Picture this: the aroma of garlic wafts through your kitchen as you sauté it to golden perfection, teasing your taste buds with what’s to come.
This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the table. I vividly remember making this for my best friend’s birthday; her eyes widened in delight as she twirled those pasta noodles around her fork. The laughter and joy lingered long after the last bite was devoured, making it a cherished memory.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This parmesan garlic chicken pasta is simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- A rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese with savory garlic for maximum satisfaction
- Its stunning presentation will impress guests while being versatile enough for meal prep
- Serve it on any occasion, from cozy nights in to festive gatherings
I once whipped up this dish on a rainy day, and my family declared it their new favorite comfort food.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on your crowd.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; nothing beats that aromatic punch.
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Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Use your favorite type; al dente works best for that perfect bite.
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Heavy Cream: This adds richness; opt for full-fat for creamier results.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and elevates the flavor tremendously.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best for sautéing; it enhances the overall taste.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your palate.
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Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a pop of freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the garlic finely so its pungent aroma fills the air. Prepare your chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the sound of sizzling as they cook!
Add Garlic and Cream: Toss in minced garlic once the chicken is browned. Sauté briefly until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream. Stir well as it bubbles gently, creating a luscious sauce.
Create Your Sauce Base: Gradually add freshly grated parmesan cheese into the skillet while stirring continuously until melted and combined into a creamy sauce. The mixture should be thick enough to coat your pasta perfectly.
Cook Your Pasta: While preparing your sauce, boil water in a separate pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water to help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
Toss Everything Together: Add drained pasta into the skillet with sauce. Mix thoroughly until each noodle is coated in cheesy goodness. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve desired creaminess.
Now plate up that delicious parmesan garlic chicken pasta! Garnish with fresh parsley for color and serve immediately while everything is hot and inviting—the ultimate comfort food experience awaits!
You Must Know
- The secret to an irresistible parmesan garlic chicken pasta lies in the balance of flavors
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant taste and always taste as you go
- This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in with loved ones
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden, then cook the pasta while you prepare the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready at once, making your dinner experience seamless.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate your dish’s flavor profile to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a flavorful kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to your sauce
- Ensure your pasta is al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce
- Always use freshly grated cheese for that authentic flavor boost
I remember one evening when my friends gathered around for dinner, and they were blown away by this dish. Their praises made my heart swell, reminding me why I love cooking!
FAQ
Can I make this parmesan garlic chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead but avoid mixing until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?
Be sure to stir occasionally while cooking and rinse briefly with cold water after draining.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Parmesan garlic chicken pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken and al dente pasta in a savory garlic sauce. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop garlic and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and cream: Stir in minced garlic; sauté until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream. Stir gently until combined.
- Create the sauce base: Gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook the pasta: Boil water in a separate pot and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Combine everything: Toss drained pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
