Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that envelops you in its rich, creamy goodness. Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, each strand clinging to tender chicken pieces and coated in a luscious garlic and parmesan sauce that practically sings with flavor. Balsamic Chicken with Orzo The aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table for what promises to be a delightful feast.
This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it evokes memories of family dinners where laughter fills the air and stories are shared over plates piled high with comfort. Honey Glazed Chicken Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive gathering, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is here to brighten your day and tantalize your taste buds with its cheesy allure.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its creamy visual appeal makes it a showstopper on any dinner table
- Plus, you can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different proteins!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it faster than I could serve it, leaving me wondering if I should’ve made a double batch.
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 adjust based on how hungry everyone is.
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Fusilli Pasta: This spiral shape captures the sauce beautifully; feel free to swap with your favorite pasta.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best punch of flavor; nothing beats fresh garlic!
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Heavy Cream: Adds that luscious creaminess; don’t skimp on this ingredient for ultimate indulgence.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for maximum flavor; the sharper, the better!
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; its fruity notes enhance the dish.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to achieve perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop the garlic finely. Garlic Flatbread Recipe This step ensures everything is ready when you start cooking; no one likes a frantic search mid-recipe!
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside while you work on that heavenly sauce.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic after removing chicken. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—this will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Add Creamy Goodness: Pour in heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Mix well until smooth; this is where magic happens!
Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta back into the skillet along with sliced chicken. Toss gently to coat everything in that delectable sauce until fully combined.
Enjoy every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Each forkful should bring joy and satisfaction as you relish in your culinary success. The blend of flavors dances on your palate while warm memories fill your heart—what more could you ask for? For more inspiration, check out this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate
- The aroma of garlic and cheese fills the kitchen, making everyone wander in
- Plus, it’s a dish that comes together quickly—perfect for those weeknight dinner emergencies!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken; then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy garlic sauce. Herb Roasted Chicken This sequence not only saves time but also ensures all flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or even add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate this dish to new heights, too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before cooking prevents it from becoming tough
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer flavor
- Lastly, undercook your pasta slightly; it’ll finish cooking in the sauce!
My first attempt at this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta was met with raving reviews from friends who came over for dinner. They went back for seconds and thirds—definitely a win!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve with hot sauce on the side.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken and perfectly cooked fusilli pasta enveloped in a rich garlic and parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and finely chop the garlic.
- Cook fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add heavy cream and parmesan cheese; stir until melted and creamy.
- Return cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet; toss gently to coat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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