Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The standout qualities of this meal include its simplicity, mouthwatering flavor, and the comforting essence that makes it an all-time favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a savory sauce that elevates the entire meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this creamy chicken pasta, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
- One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy delicious food without the hassle.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the fettuccine pasta to perfection.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 10 ounces fettuccine pasta
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the chicken pieces.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet:
1. Melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the garlic mixture:
1. Whisk to combine, cooking for 1 minute.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream.
3. Stir continuously until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Remove skillet from heat:
1. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Return cooked chicken and fettuccine to skillet:
1. Toss everything together to coat evenly in creamy sauce.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Transfer pasta to a serving dish:
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Serving Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful experience. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Classic Choice: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for extra flavor and a satisfying crunch.
Add a Side Salad
- Fresh Greens: A light Caesar or garden salad complements the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing touch.
Top with Extra Parmesan
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle additional grated parmesan cheese over each serving for an even creamier taste.
Include Roasted Vegetables
- Healthy Addition: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini can bring color and nutrition to your plate.
Drizzle with Olive Oil
- Flavor Boost: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving enhances the dish’s flavors.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Herbaceous Touch: Fresh basil or thyme can brighten up the presentation and add a burst of freshness.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
- seasoning: Ensure you season both the chicken and the sauce well. This enhances the overall flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and parsley for a more vibrant taste compared to dried options.
- Cook pasta al dente: Follow package directions carefully to avoid overcooking the fettuccine, ensuring it holds its shape.
- Stir continuously: When making the sauce, keep stirring as you add chicken broth and cream to prevent lumps.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for a unique twist on flavor.
- Reheat gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them slowly on low heat to keep the sauce creamy without separating.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
When enjoying Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, pairing it with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Bread
- Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, this classic complement is always a favorite.
- Caesar Salad
- Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing adds crunch and zest.
- Steamed Broccoli
- Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the rich pasta dish.
- Caprese Salad
- Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Asparagus
- Seasoned roasted asparagus adds earthy flavors that pair beautifully with creamy pasta.
- Creamy Mushroom Risotto
- A rich risotto brings an extra layer of creaminess that harmonizes well with chicken and parmesan.
- Grilled Zucchini
- Lightly grilled zucchini offers a smoky flavor that complements the dish nicely.
- Quinoa Pilaf
- A nutty quinoa pilaf provides texture and is a healthy alternative to traditional sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few you should watch out for:
- Using the wrong pasta: Not all pasta works well with creamy sauces. Stick to fettuccine or similar shapes that hold sauce better.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and remove it as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step; sauté it until fragrant for the best taste.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. You may need more salt, pepper, or cheese for optimal flavor.
- Forgetting about the pasta water: Reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or cream and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta so special?
This dish is special because it combines rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting meal everyone loves.
Can I customize the Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for shrimp or sausage if you prefer.
How do I know when my pasta is al dente?
Pasta is considered al dente when it has a slight bite but is fully cooked. Taste a piece just before draining to check its doneness.
What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad, enhancing your meal experience without overpowering the main course.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more delightful dish!
Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, a dish that transforms tender chicken and al dente fettuccine into a comforting meal fit for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this rich and savory pasta topped with a luscious garlic parmesan sauce that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. With its creamy texture and robust flavor, this one-pot wonder is not only family-friendly but also customizable—perfect for adding your favorite vegetables or alternative proteins. Enjoy the simplicity of this delightful recipe that promises to be an instant favorite among your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook seasoned chicken until browned; remove from skillet.
- Sauté garlic in melted butter until fragrant.
- Whisk flour into the skillet; gradually add chicken broth and cream while stirring until thickened.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted; add cooked chicken and pasta.
- Toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce and serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
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