Welcome to My Cozy Kitchen!
Hi there! Are you ready to dive into a mouthwatering bowl of creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta? This dish is like a warm hug! It’s rich, comforting, and oh-so-easy to make. I love whipping this up after a long day because it not only satisfies my cravings but also brings everyone together around the dinner table. Trust me, your taste buds are going to thank you!
Nutritional Benefits
So, you might be wondering about the health aspect of this creamy goodness. While it’s definitely a comfort food, it has a few benefits to note! The chicken provides lean protein, which is great for many diets. Plus, garlic isn’t just tasty; it’s known for its health benefits, including boosting your immune system. And while the heavy cream and Parmesan add extra richness, you can enjoy them in moderation. Balance is key!
Adaptable Variations to Consider
- Whole Grain Goodness: Swap out rotini for whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- For a Lighter Option: You can use half-and-half or even low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. Just keep in mind the sauce might need more cooking time to thicken.
- Add Veggies: I love tossing in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for extra color and nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in those greens!
- Go Meatless: To make this vegetarian, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini. You’ll still get that savory flavor!
Let’s Get Cooking! Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) rotini pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mixture of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, toss in the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After draining, be sure to reserve a little of that pasta water—you’ll want it later!
- Prepare the Chicken: While your pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and let them rest before slicing.
- Make the Sauce: In that same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, bringing out that delicious aroma. Just watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
- Add Cream and Cheese: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Bring this heavenly mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s fully melted and the sauce has thickened up nicely.
- Season the Sauce: Toss in the dried Italian herbs and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water to get your preferred consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet and toss it all together so that the pasta is well-coated with that creamy sauce.
- Plate the Dish: Serve this lovely creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta onto your plates, top each serving with the sliced chicken, and give a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten it up.
- Enjoy!: Dive in while it’s hot, and savor every delectable bite. This dish is sure to warm your heart!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you’d like a little crunch, consider topping it with toasted breadcrumbs or even crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to help revive the sauce!
- If you make extra pasta, you can simply save it and toss it in another sauce for a quick meal the next day.
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander for draining
- A large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce
- A cutting board and knife for slicing
- Measuring cups and spoons for precision
- A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like—fettuccine or penne works well too!
- What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Can I make this dish in advance? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Just heat everything together before serving.
- Is this dish kid-friendly? Definitely! The creamy sauce and tasty chicken make it a hit with kids, and they’ll love the pasta!
- How can I spice it up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some sautéed bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick!
Share Your Experience!
I hope you enjoy making this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta just as much as I do! If you try it out, I would love to hear about it! Please share your thoughts and photos with me on Pinterest, and let’s keep the love for easy, flavorful comfort food alive!
