Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick and delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. The combination of garlic, cheese, and chicken is simply irresistible.
A Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity is key, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta delivers just that. With the main components ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. The creamy sauce envelops each piece of pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich, savory base that complements the tender chicken beautifully. Not only is it pleasing to the palate, but it's also visually appealing, making it an excellent dish to serve for family or friends. After just one taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the pasta type to your liking—whether you prefer spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, any shape will work well. Additionally, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to enhance both the nutrition and flavor profiles.
If you're looking for a heartier dish, consider adding some cooked bacon or Italian sausage. These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your family’s preferences, ensuring that everyone enjoys their meal equally. Don't be afraid to experiment, as this dish serves as a wonderful base for your culinary creativity.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy. Simply transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes this recipe not only delicious but also practical for meal prepping or making ahead of time, saving you precious moments during your busy week.
When it comes time to reheat, you can either use the microwave for convenience or reheat gently in a skillet. Just add a splash of cream or a little olive oil to bring back that creamy texture. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even days after it was originally cooked.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for an efficient experience.
Cooking Steps
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Sauce
Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your meal with some garlic bread on the side!
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which aids in muscle repair and overall health. Pairing it with a creamy sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provides a dose of calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced meal.
Moreover, if you add veggies like spinach or broccoli, you enhance the dish with vitamins and minerals. This makes the meal not just delicious but also nutritionally beneficial, allowing you to enjoy comfort food without the guilt.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this creamy pasta with a light salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. The freshness of the salad helps balance the flavors while adding a refreshing crunch.
For beverages, a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan notes of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon can also be a great choice to cleanse your palate between bites.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you like will work well for this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick and delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy evenings, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g