Name: Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 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 extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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The aroma of garlic mingling with buttery chicken sends your senses into overdrive, doesn’t it? Imagine creamy pasta twirling around your fork, dripping with dreamy flavors that evoke childhood memories of family dinners and laughter. Chicken buttered noodles recipe In just 30 minutes, you can dive into a bowl of Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Garlic that tastes like love wrapped in a blanket of comfort. baked chicken tenderloins recipe chicken avocado wrap recipe. For more inspiration, check out this creamy pepper jack pasta recipe.

Think about those chaotic weeknights when dinner feels like a daunting task. This dish swoops in like a culinary superhero, ready to rescue you from the clutches of takeout menus. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or impressing friends at last-minute gatherings. Get ready for an exciting flavor journey!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to whip up on busy nights, making meal prep a breeze
The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience
It’s visually stunning with colorful garnishes and aromatic herbs
Perfect for casual dinners but elegant enough for special occasions!

I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it, asking for seconds before they even finished their first plate!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on the number of hungry mouths.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; their pungent aroma elevates the entire dish.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Select your favorite type; it should hold onto that creamy sauce perfectly.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness; you can substitute with half-and-half if you’re feeling adventurous.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; avoid the pre-grated stuff if possible.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds flavor and helps brown the chicken nicely.
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple but essential; they enhance all other flavors in the dish.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil): Finely chop them for garnishing; they add color and freshness to each bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Kung Pao chicken with rice Cook until golden brown on both sides.

Sauté the Garlic: Once chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to burn it.

Add Cream and Cheese: Pour heavy cream into the pan, stirring well to combine with garlic. Gradually sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and creamy.

Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining—the starch helps thicken your sauce!

Toss It All Together!: Add drained pasta to the skillet along with sliced chicken. Toss everything together vigorously until well coated in that luscious sauce. If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time. For more inspiration, check out this Cajun chicken pasta recipe recipe.

Garnish and Serve!: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs over your dish for an aromatic touch before serving immediately while it’s hot! Enjoy every bite of your Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Garlic masterpiece!

You Must Know

This creamy pasta with chicken and garlic offers an effortless dinner solution that’s rich in flavor
The aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a beloved family favorite
Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy garlic sauce. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to revive its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use freshly minced garlic instead of pre-minced for a more vibrant flavor
Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning to your preference
Remember to reserve some pasta water—it helps adjust sauce consistency!

Cooking this dish always brings back memories of my friends’ rave reviews during our casual dinner parties—nothing beats a meal that gets everyone talking!

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta for this creamy pasta with chicken and garlic?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra nutrients.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.

How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the garlic for some heat.