If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, tasty, and comforting, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the answer. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pan! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish will always impress.
Where Did Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Come From?
Creamy pasta dishes have their roots in Italian-inspired cooking. While traditional Italian recipes focus on simple ingredients, this dish combines those classic flavors with a rich, creamy twist. For example, dishes like our Pasta Weesie Recipe show how pasta can be endlessly adapted.
Ingredients You Need
This recipe uses simple and fresh ingredients for the best taste. Moreover, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
Chicken
- Boneless chicken breasts: Flatten them for even cooking. For more tips, check out our guide on the Difference Between Chicken Cutlets and Thin-Sliced Chicken Breast.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper make the chicken flavorful.
Pasta
- Penne pasta: It holds the sauce well and cooks evenly.
- Gluten-free pasta: If needed, brands like Banza or Jovial are excellent choices.
Creamy Sauce
- Garlic: Essential for that bold flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce smooth and creamy.
- Parmesan cheese: Use fresh cheese for the best melting.
- Parsley: Provides a bright and fresh finish.
How to Make It
This recipe is quick and easy, so you can make it even on your busiest days. Furthermore, it only requires one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
1. Prep the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts to make them even.
- Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. As the butter melts, it will give the chicken a nice golden crust.
- Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. For another great chicken recipe, consider trying our Smoked Chicken Breast.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- First, sauté onions in butter until soft and translucent.
- Then, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- After that, pour in chicken broth and scrape the pan to mix the browned bits. This step adds even more flavor.
4. Cook the Pasta
- Stir uncooked penne pasta into the pan, making sure it’s fully covered by the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook until the pasta is tender but firm.
5. Put It All Together
- Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Finally, slice the chicken and mix it into the pasta. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and your dish is ready!
What to Serve With It
Pairing this dish with the right sides makes the meal complete. In addition, the sides can add variety and balance to the creamy flavors.
- Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach are excellent choices.
- Salads: A light arugula or Caesar salad works perfectly.
- Bread: Garlic bread is always a favorite for dipping into the creamy sauce.
For a bold and hearty option, check out our Cowboy Spaghetti Recipe.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—they reheat beautifully! Here’s how to store them:
- Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy and fresh.
Tips for Success
To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente for the best texture.
- Check the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Add cream off the heat: This keeps the sauce smooth and prevents curdling.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta, but check the package for cooking times and adjust as needed.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or oat-based cream as a dairy-free option. However, the texture might be slightly different.
How can I stop the chicken from sticking to the pan?
Always preheat the pan and add oil before the chicken. Additionally, wait until the chicken naturally releases before flipping it.
What veggies go well with this dish?
Broccoli, spinach, or even kale pair beautifully with the creamy pasta.
Conclusion
In conclusion, garlic parmesan chicken pasta is an easy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Thanks to its one-pan simplicity, it’s quick to make and even quicker to clean up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to please.
If you’re looking for more ideas, try our Thin-Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes for more delicious chicken meals.