GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN PASTA EASY

I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday night, racing home from work, starving and dreading the thought of another boring dinner, when I threw together some leftover chicken, pasta, and a jar of Parmesan garlic sauce – and it was a revelation! That haphazard creation sparked my love for the simple yet incredibly satisfying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a dish that’s now a family favorite, and I promise you, it’s easier and tastier than you might think.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Your New Weeknight Hero

Let’s be honest, we all have those nights where cooking feels like a monumental task. The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is that it’s incredibly adaptable, quick to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and delicious. I’m going to walk you through every step, offering tips and tricks along the way to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a resounding success.

Why This Recipe Works (And Why You’ll Love It)

Beyond its simplicity, this recipe shines because of its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy, garlicky sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, while the tender chicken adds a satisfying protein boost. Plus, you can easily customize it to your liking, adding vegetables, different cheeses, or even a touch of spice. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: A delightful combination of garlic, Parmesan, and chicken.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
• Comforting: A warm and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, you probably have many of these in your pantry already!

• Pasta: 1 pound of your favorite pasta shape (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rotini all work well). I personally love fettuccine because the creamy sauce clings to it perfectly.
• Chicken: 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover cooked chicken to save time.
• Garlic: 4-6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is key to getting that intense garlic flavor.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted. Butter adds richness and helps create the perfect sauce base.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but heavy cream provides the best creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully and adds a nutty, savory flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded Parmesan, as it often contains cellulose that prevents it from melting smoothly.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. This helps thin the sauce and adds extra flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the chicken.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped; red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat).

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

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. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is a secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. 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, as it can become bitter. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet (this adds tons of flavor!). Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if desired).

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are a few extra tips to elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to the next level:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce more effectively.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded Parmesan.
• Adjust the Garlic to Your Liking: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more!
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Keep it Warm: If you’re not serving immediately, keep the pasta warm in a low oven (about 200°F) or in a slow cooker on the warm setting.

Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to customize it to your taste:

• Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Creamy Pesto Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto to the sauce for a vibrant green color and herbaceous flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
• Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but here are some side dishes that complement it perfectly:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that’s always a hit.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are all great choices.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Making it Ahead and Storage

While Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.

• Cook the Chicken: You can cook the chicken up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
• Make the Sauce: The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat before adding the pasta and chicken.

Storage: Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing: While it’s not ideal, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. The sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but it will still be edible. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best recipes, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

• Sauce is Too Thick: Add a little more pasta water, chicken broth, or milk to thin it out.
• Sauce is Too Thin: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken it.
• Chicken is Dry: Don’t overcook the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also add a little extra olive oil or butter to the skillet while cooking.
• Pasta is Sticky: Make sure to cook the pasta in plenty of salted water. Don’t overcook it, and rinse it immediately after draining.

More Delicious Pasta Recipes to Explore

If you’re a pasta lover like me, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:

• For a taste of the Southwest, check out this Longhorn Parmesan Chicken recipe. It’s a flavor explosion!
• Craving something incredibly simple? Try this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. It’s a weeknight winner.
• If you’re looking for ultimate comfort food, this Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try.
• For an extra creamy and indulgent experience, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will hit the spot.
• Looking for an even easier option? Try this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a hands-off approach.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable, delicious, and comforting meal that you can always count on. I hope this guide has given you the confidence to create your own version of this classic dish. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying culinary experience. Happy cooking!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce for a comforting and satisfying dish the whole family will love.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rotini
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped optional garnish
• Red pepper flakes optional garnish

Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs or spatula

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Add a splash of pasta water to thin, if necessary.
7. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if desired).

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. Adjust the garlic to your liking. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed. Sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.