Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a quick and delectable 30-minute dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features tender chicken tossed in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce and served over al dente pasta, making it a family favorite in no time. Enjoy an easy-to-make meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction!
This is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan in a creamy sauce, perfect for any pasta lover.
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
Finding a quick yet satisfying meal option can be a challenge during busy weeknights. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the answer, allowing you to whip up a delightful dish in just 30 minutes. This recipe is designed to minimize your time in the kitchen while maximizing flavor, ensuring that your family is happy and well-fed without compromising on the quality of your meal.
The combination of tender chicken and al dente pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce makes for a comforting dinner that everyone will love. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a meal that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant. Set the table and prepare for a delightful evening with your loved ones.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just for busy weeknights; it’s also versatile enough to serve on special occasions or family gatherings. You can easily modify the dish by adding seasonal vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli, which not only enhance the presentation but also add a nutritional boost.
This recipe can also be made with different types of pasta—applies well to spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options. By customizing the ingredients according to your family's preferences, you'll keep the dish exciting and appealing for every member of the household.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or using Greek yogurt as an alternative. These options will still provide creaminess while reducing the overall caloric content without sacrificing flavor.
You can also use leaner cuts of chicken, such as chicken thighs or even shredded rotisserie chicken, to save time. Lean protein not only makes for a healthy meal but also helps keep you full longer, making it a smart choice for families on the go.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
With these ingredients, you're all set to create a delicious meal!
Instructions
Follow these steps to cook your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!
Now that you’ve followed the steps, dig in and enjoy your creamy pasta dish!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or cream and gently warm it on the stove, stirring until the sauce regains its creamy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dish without the pasta. Prepare the sauce and chicken mixture, allow it to cool, and then freeze in a sealed container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator and then mix with freshly cooked pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing this delicious pasta dish with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables can elevate your meal and add color to your plate. A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creaminess of the pasta, making for a balanced meal that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
For an added touch, serve it with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This complete dining experience not only satisfies hunger but provides a comforting ambiance that makes your dinner feel special, regardless of the occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta.
→ How can I make it lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a quick and delectable 30-minute dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights. This dish features tender chicken tossed in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce and served over al dente pasta, making it a family favorite in no time. Enjoy an easy-to-make meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction!
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 30g