Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s rich and flavorful. This recipe is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, with the golden-brown chicken perfectly nestled in a bed of pasta, all coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress both your loved ones and yourself with its ease and deliciousness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta for several reasons! First, the flavor profile is simply divine. The rich, buttery garlic sauce enhances the umami of the chicken, while the Parmesan adds a nutty depth that complements the dish perfectly. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make! In under an hour, you can have a restaurant-quality meal at home, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Lastly, it fits well into a variety of diets; it’s hearty enough for those looking for comfort food while still being light enough for the health-conscious.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta even more delightful, here are some tips and tricks:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture and better flavor. Pre-grated cheese can often have anti-caking agents that dull the taste.
- For an extra punch of flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of garlic, olive oil, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you want to save time, cook the pasta while the chicken is cooking to streamline the process.
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Adding a bit of starchy water to your sauce can help it cling better to the pasta.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy cooks or meal preppers, you can make several components of this dish ahead of time:
- The chicken can be marinated a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen.
- You can also cook the pasta ahead of time and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days as well. Just reheat gently before serving.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this dish to your liking! Here are some variations:
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or grilled vegetables for a lighter option.
- Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic sauce.
- Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
How to Serve
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for that extra touch. Pair it with a side salad featuring mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish. A slice of crusty bread for dipping in the sauce is also a delightful addition!
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the flavors of this dish, consider serving it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing lemon basil spritzer pairs wonderfully. For side dishes, garlic bread or steamed vegetables work beautifully, while a light lemon sorbet makes for a refreshing dessert.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help revive the sauce’s consistency.
Equipment Needed
To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you will need:
- A large skillet or frying pan for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- A pot for boiling the pasta.
- A meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness.
- A whisk for blending the sauce smoothly.
If you don’t have a skillet, any large pan will do, just ensure it has a lid for simmering.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, consider these adaptations:
- To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use a dairy-free cream substitute, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Ensure gluten-free pasta is used for a gluten-free option.
Seasonal Adaptations
Incorporate seasonal ingredients to elevate your dish. Use fresh basil and cherry tomatoes in the summer for a burst of freshness, or roasted butternut squash in the fall to add a touch of sweetness. Fresh herbs can also enhance the dish’s flavor profile year-round.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry to ensure proper browning.
- How long should I cook the pasta? Generally, 8-10 minutes works well for al dente, but check the package instructions.
- What can I substitute for Parmesan? Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative, while Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper flavor.
- Can I make it ahead? Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.
How To Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines juicy chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s rich and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add in the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Slice the chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 631Total Fat 41gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 147mgSodium 612mgCarbohydrates 33gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a versatile and delightful dish that can easily become a weeknight favorite. Its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and satisfying ingredients make it a comfort food classic. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy creating and savoring this delicious meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining table!