Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – Quick & Creamy Dinner Recipe

This recipe for chicken pasta with garlic and parmesan offers a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

 

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy chicken pasta is a truly delightful dish. It brings together tender chicken, a creamy sauce flavored with garlic and parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta. Consequently, it’s a meal that pleases everyone. Moreover, it’s easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Therefore, this recipe is a must-try.

The Magic of Garlic and Parmesan

The combination of garlic and parmesan creates an amazing flavor. Additionally, the rich, savory notes of parmesan cheese pair exceptionally well with the pungent garlic. This blend is further enhanced by the creamy sauce, which coats every strand of pasta perfectly. Furthermore, this dish offers a comforting and delicious experience.

Ingredients for Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make this wonderful chicken and pasta dish, you’ll need simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into pieces

• 1 pound of your favorite pasta

• 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, grated

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 cup of heavy cream

• 1/4 cup of butter

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you prepare all your ingredients. Firstly, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Next, mince the garlic. Then, grate the parmesan cheese. In addition, have the heavy cream, butter, and olive oil ready. Finally, have your salt, pepper, and parsley within reach. Therefore, this will make the cooking process go smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create your pasta with chicken, garlic and parmesan:

1. Cook the Pasta: Firstly, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain it and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through. Afterward, set the chicken aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the butter to the same pan. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, until fragrant. It is important not to burn the garlic.

4. Make the Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the pan with the garlic. Add the grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Combine and Season: Add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Next, add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat with the sauce. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve your chicken pasta dish immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are some useful tips for making the best chicken with parmesan pasta:

• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.

• Do not overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.

• If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out.

• Adjust the amount of garlic and cheese to your preference.

• For a richer flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This pasta with creamy sauce recipe is very flexible. Consequently, there are several ways to change it to suit your liking. For instance, you could add vegetables or use different kinds of cheese. Therefore, it’s easy to customize to your preference.

Adding Vegetables to Creamy Chicken Pasta

Adding vegetables can bring freshness to your creamy chicken dish. Consider these options:

• Spinach: Add a few handfuls of spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add a boost of nutrients.

• Broccoli: Lightly steam some broccoli and add it to the pasta along with the sauce.

• Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and a chewy texture to the dish.

• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for a richer, more earthy taste.

Different Cheeses in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

While parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Consider using:

• Pecorino Romano: This hard, salty cheese gives a more intense flavor than parmesan.

• Asiago: This is another good option for its nutty and slightly tangy notes.

• Mozzarella: While it doesn’t have the same salty taste, it will make the dish extra cheesy.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This dish is delicious on its own. However, it goes well with different side dishes. Consider these pairing options:

Side Dishes That Complement Chicken and Pasta

Here are some ideas for side dishes that complement chicken and pasta:

• Garlic Bread: This is a great pairing, as it amplifies the garlic flavor.

• Side Salad: A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing will cut through the richness of the pasta.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, carrots, or bell peppers are excellent choices.

Wine Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For wine pairings, consider the following:

• White Wines: A light, crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works very well.

• Rosé Wine: A dry rosé is another good option that complements the creaminess of the dish.

• Light-Bodied Red Wine: If you prefer red, choose a light-bodied option like Pinot Noir.

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ahead of Time

It is possible to prepare elements of this dish in advance. However, note that the sauce is best served freshly made.

Prepping Steps for Chicken Pasta

Here’s how to prep ahead:

• Cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prepare the garlic and measure out the cheese.

• Cook the pasta. Drain it, toss with a little olive oil, and store it in the refrigerator.

Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers of your chicken pasta, here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, you can use the microwave or gently heat it in a pan. You might need to add a splash of cream or water to make it saucy again.

Health Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

While this creamy chicken pasta is an amazing comfort food, it also provides some nutritional benefits. However, be sure to maintain balance, as it is not a low-calorie dish.

Nutritional Aspects of this Chicken Pasta

Here are some of the nutrients you can find in this meal:

• Protein: The chicken provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

• Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health.

• Garlic: Garlic is known for its health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Healthier

If you want to make this dish healthier, consider these changes:

• Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

• Use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream.

• Add more vegetables to increase the nutrients.

• Use a moderate amount of cheese and salt.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Here are some frequently asked questions about this dish:

Why is it called “marry me pasta”?

The term “marry me pasta” refers to dishes with incredibly rich and delicious sauces that are so good, they could inspire someone to propose marriage. It’s a playful term used for memorable recipes, and while this isn’t the original recipe associated with that name, the idea is similar: this is incredibly flavorful.

What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and Parmesan?

Chicken parmigiana, often shortened to chicken parm, is a dish where breaded chicken is covered with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Parmesan, on the other hand, is a type of hard, dry cheese with a distinct salty and savory flavor that is a primary ingredient of this recipe.

Is chicken ok with pasta?

Yes, chicken is an excellent protein to pair with pasta. It’s a versatile option that goes well with many different pasta sauces. Additionally, it’s a very common addition to many Italian-American pasta dishes. This is a great example of how well they go together.

How do you get breading to stick to chicken parmesan?

This recipe doesn’t involve breading. However, for breaded chicken, you would typically use an egg wash followed by breadcrumbs. Moreover, pressing the breaded chicken gently before cooking will also help the breading to stick better.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this chicken and pasta recipe is a delightful and satisfying meal. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken create an amazing flavor combination. This dish is easy to make, so it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Therefore, it is a must-try recipe that is sure to impress. Consequently, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize to your taste. So, try this recipe today and enjoy!