Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

The aroma of garlicky goodness mingling with creamy parmesan is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero.

Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a luscious, decadent sauce, with juicy chicken pieces that melt in your mouth. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate.

Here are a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this dish:

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without the fuss.
• The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make with everyday ingredients.
• This pasta dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a fancy-feeling solo meal.
• You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein for a meal that’s always exciting and new.

Ingredients for Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

Pasta I recommend using fettuccine or linguine, but any pasta shape will work. Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Garlic Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic flavor. Mince it finely for the best results.

Heavy Cream This is the base of our creamy sauce, providing richness and body. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Chicken Broth Adds depth of flavor to the sauce and helps to thin it out. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

Butter Adds richness and helps to create a smooth and glossy sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.

Olive Oil For sautéing the chicken and garlic. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Italian Seasoning A blend of dried herbs that adds a touch of Italian flair. You can substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Salt and Pepper To taste.

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

How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired, for an extra touch of elegance. This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish to share!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate deliciousness with this *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe*, timing is everything! Begin by searing the chicken to golden perfection, ensuring it’s cooked through. While the chicken rests, get your pasta boiling and simultaneously whip up that dreamy garlic parmesan sauce. This way, everything comes together hot and fresh.

Add Your Touch

The beauty of this *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe* lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add a medley of your favorite veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous!

Storing & Reheating

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this divine *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe*, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain its creamy texture.

Here are a few golden nuggets of wisdom to help you create the best ever creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; searing in batches ensures a beautiful golden crust and juicy, flavorful meat.

• Reserve some of the pasta water before draining – it’s liquid gold for thinning out the sauce and helping it cling perfectly to the pasta.

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese is a game-changer, delivering a richer, more intense flavor than the pre-shredded kind. Treat yourself!

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My picky-eater nephew, who usually avoids anything green, devoured this pasta and even asked for seconds! I snuck in some finely chopped spinach, and he didn’t even notice. Victory!

The Allure of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Just the name conjures up images of creamy, dreamy deliciousness, doesn’t it? It’s the kind of dish that can transform a mundane weeknight into a culinary celebration. Forget those complicated recipes with a million steps; we’re diving headfirst into an *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe* that’s so simple, even a toddler could (almost) make it. (Okay, maybe supervise the toddler.)

But why this particular pasta dish? What makes it so irresistible? Is it the rich, garlicky sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta? Is it the tender, juicy chicken that adds a satisfying protein punch? Or is it the sheer, unadulterated comfort food factor that makes you want to curl up on the couch and binge-watch your favorite show? The answer, my friends, is all of the above.

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug. It’s the dish you make when you need a little extra love, when you want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat, or when you simply crave something utterly, ridiculously delicious. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! Prefer a different kind of pasta? Be my guest! This recipe is your canvas; let your culinary creativity run wild. So, grab your apron, crank up the music, and let’s get cooking!

Gathering Your Arsenal: The Ingredients

Before we embark on our pasta-making adventure, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients at our disposal. Think of it as assembling your culinary Avengers, each playing a crucial role in the creation of our *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe*.

• **Chicken Breasts:** The star of the show! Aim for about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be plump, juicy, and ready to be transformed into tender morsels of deliciousness.

• **Pasta:** I’m a sucker for fettuccine, but you can use any pasta shape you fancy. Penne, spaghetti, linguine – they all work beautifully. Just make sure you have about a pound of it.

• **Garlic:** This is where the magic happens. Don’t be shy! We’re talking about 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced finely. The more garlic, the merrier, in my humble opinion.

• **Heavy Cream:** The foundation of our creamy sauce. A cup and a half of heavy cream will do the trick. It’s what gives the sauce its velvety texture and luxurious mouthfeel.

• **Parmesan Cheese:** Freshly grated, of course! This is non-negotiable. The pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t compare. Aim for about a cup, and maybe a little extra for topping.

• **Chicken Broth:** This adds depth and flavor to the sauce. A half-cup of low-sodium chicken broth is perfect.

• **Butter:** Because everything tastes better with butter! Two tablespoons of unsalted butter will add richness and help create a luscious sauce.

• **Olive Oil:** For searing the chicken. A tablespoon or two of extra virgin olive oil will do the trick.

• **Seasonings:** Salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick).

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get down to business!

The Art of Sauce: Creamy Garlic Perfection

Ah, the sauce. The heart and soul of this *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe*. This is where we transform simple ingredients into a symphony of flavor that will make your taste buds sing.

First, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will turn bitter. Nobody wants bitter garlic in their creamy, dreamy pasta sauce!

Next, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are packed with flavor, so don’t let them go to waste!

Now, it’s time for the heavy cream. Pour it into the skillet and stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

And there you have it – a creamy, garlicky, parmesan-y sauce that’s ready to coat every strand of pasta in its delicious embrace.

Chicken’s Golden Moment: Searing to Perfection

Let’s talk chicken. Because let’s face it, bland chicken is a culinary crime. We want our chicken to be juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. The key? Searing.

First, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. If the chicken is wet, it will steam instead of sear. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will steam instead of sear.

Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Pasta Paradise: Cooking it Just Right

Now for the pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian. The pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy.

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold! It helps to thin out the sauce and helps it cling perfectly to the pasta.

Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce.

Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

And there you have it – an *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe* that’s sure to become a family favorite.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

I once accidentally used sweetened condensed milk instead of heavy cream. The result? A surprisingly delicious, slightly sweet pasta dish! Who knew?

Variations and Twists: Unleash Your Inner Chef

Okay, so you’ve mastered the basic *easy creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe*. Congratulations! But why stop there? Let’s explore some variations and twists to unleash your inner chef and create a truly unique dish.

• **Add Veggies:** Toss in some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or steamed broccoli for a boost of nutrients and flavor.

• **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick. Or, try using a different kind of pepper, like cayenne or chipotle.

• **Cheese Please:** Experiment with different cheeses. Try adding some mozzarella, provolone, or asiago to the sauce.

• **Herb Heaven:** Fresh herbs can take this dish to the next level. Try adding some chopped basil, oregano, or thyme to the sauce.

• **Go Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta for a healthier, allergy-friendly option.

• **Chicken Alternatives:** Use grilled shrimp, sliced turkey, or even tofu instead of chicken.

• **Lemon Zest:** Add a touch of brightness with some lemon zest.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature version of this classic dish. After all, cooking should be fun!

Conclusion for Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe :

This Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a weeknight dinner winner! It’s quick, simple, and satisfying, delivering a flavorful dish that the whole family will love. The rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a truly comforting meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite pasta shapes and vegetables to make it your own. This dish proves that you don’t need complicated recipes or fancy ingredients to create something truly special. Get cooking, and enjoy the delicious results!

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FAQs :

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your pasta choice. Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine would work beautifully in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time as different pasta shapes may vary. The key is to cook it al dente – slightly firm to the bite – so it holds its shape well when coated in that luscious garlic parmesan sauce with the chicken. I encourage you to experiment and discover your personal favorite combination with the chicken. This recipe is forgiving and adaptable to your taste buds.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Yes, indeed! If you’re looking to lighten things up or don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half. The sauce won’t be quite as thick and rich, but it will still be delicious. Alternatively, you could use a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken it up. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a quarter cup of milk and whisk it into the sauce as it simmers. This will create a creamy texture without all the extra calories. It’s a great trick for a healthier, but still satisfying, rendition of creamy garlic chicken pasta.

How can I prevent the chicken from drying out in this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

Nobody wants dry chicken! The secret to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Sear the chicken pieces in the pan just until they are cooked through. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C). Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and steam the chicken instead of searing it. If you’re using chicken breasts, you might want to consider pounding them to an even thickness so they cook evenly. This guarantees tender and flavorful chicken in every bite of your garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this Easy Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?

You sure can! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this pasta dish. Spinach, broccoli, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be delicious additions. I recommend adding them to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain some of their crispness and don’t become mushy. They’ll soak up the flavors of the garlic parmesan sauce and complement the chicken beautifully. Think of it as a complete and balanced meal in a single bowl of chicken pasta goodness.