Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a classic comfort dish that has won the hearts of many. Its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. This dish is delicious and surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for cooks of all levels. Let’s dive into how to make the best garlic parmesan chicken pasta in your kitchen.
Ingredients Overview
To get started, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose high-quality, boneless, skinless cuts for the best results.
- Pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne works excellent for this dish, though any pasta you choose will do.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for the sauce, giving it a rich, authentic flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold flavor and complements the dish’s creaminess.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half: This forms the base of the sauce, giving it its signature creamy texture.
- Butter and olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and building the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the pasta according to the instructions. Drain and set it aside once it’s done cooking to al dente.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding a mix of butter and olive oil. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per side). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, then slowly whisk in the grated parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally to ensure it’s smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cut the cooked chicken into slices and lay it over the pasta. If needed, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch, garnish the dish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta while it’s hot!
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Sear the Chicken for Extra Flavor: Getting a good sear on your chicken helps develop a richer flavor. Don’t let it brown slightly in the pan before flipping.
- Gradually add Parmesan to the Sauce: Adding the cheese too quickly can cause clumping, so stir it in slowly to get a smooth, creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a filling dish, but you can pair it with lighter sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay, can also perfectly complement the flavors. This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a timeless dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and juicy chicken, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this simple yet delicious recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped optional
- Additional grated Parmesan optional
- A pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely and thicken the sauce.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in small amounts of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Layer the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.