Welcome to My Cozy Kitchen!
Hey there! Are you ready to whip up a delicious meal that’s both creamy and oh-so-satisfying? Today, I’m sharing my easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. This dish is packed with flavor and just the right amount of creaminess, making it perfect for any dinner. Trust me, it’s a hit with both family and friends! Plus, it’s a great way to impress without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Let’s dive in!
The Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta isn’t just tasty; it’s also filled with some delightful nutritional perks! Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. It also supports muscle growth and recovery if you’re active! The olive oil provides healthy fats, while garlic has immune-boosting properties. Not to mention, the Parmesan cheese adds a lovely flavor and a bit of calcium. So not only are you treating your taste buds, but you’re also taking care of your body!
Adaptable Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian twist. This keeps the dish hearty and filling!
- Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re gluten-sensitive, feel free to use gluten-free penne pasta, which holds up just as well!
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and vibrant color!
- Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a lighter meal, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz of penne pasta (or any preferred pasta)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
- First things first! Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta cooking water!
- While the pasta cooks, take the chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give them a lovely flavor!
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once it’s hot, place those seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Then, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a bit before slicing!
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil alongside the minced garlic. Sauté that garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
- Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir often to keep it from burning and to help thicken the cream a little.
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s all melted. If you find the sauce is a bit too thick, just add some of that reserved pasta water until you get your desired consistency.
- Time to bring it all together! Toss the cooked penne pasta into the creamy sauce ensuring every piece gets that lovely coating. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
- Garnish your dish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
- Now serve it hot, sit back, and enjoy your creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
Practical Tips
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just like any pasta dish, the flavors will deepen and make it even more delicious!
- For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the top when serving—it really brightens up the dish!
- If you want your chicken to have a nice char, make sure not to crowd the pan when cooking—this allows for even cooking!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to cook up this scrumptious dish:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander to drain the pasta
- A large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- A spatula or tongs for flipping the chicken
- A cutting board and knife for slicing the chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use whatever pasta shape you love. Bowties, fettuccine, and spaghetti all work great!
- What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option!
- Is this dish spicy? No, it’s not spicy at all. If you want a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to taste!
- How do I store leftovers? Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave!
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but I recommend cooking the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.
Join the Conversation!
Once you try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you try any of the variations? Share your experiences with me! Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, why not follow me on Pinterest? I can’t wait to share more delicious creations with you!
