Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

There’s something special about eating together after a long day. This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe makes your kitchen feel warm. Imagine chicken in a creamy sauce, mixed with perfect pasta.

This easy recipe tastes like fancy food but is simple. It’s a delicious dinner that won’t take up all your time.

When life is busy, this recipe saves the day. It’s ready in about 35 minutes. It serves up to four, great for weeknight dinners.

It’s perfect for special occasions or just for yourself. This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a tasty choice.

Make this dish a regular in your kitchen. It will bring joy and full bellies to your table.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make this tasty homemade pasta dish, start by getting a few simple things. You’ll also need some special ingredients that add lots of flavor. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is sure to make your taste buds happy.

Main Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: You’ll need 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. These will serve as the hearty protein base of the dish.
• Fusilli Pasta: Use 8 ounces of uncooked pasta such as fusilli, spaghetti, or penne. Cook according to the package instructions.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the sauce a savory, slightly nutty flavor.
• Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter for cooking the chicken and adding depth to the sauce.
• Optional Chickpea Pasta: For a high-fiber alternative, use 8 ounces of uncooked chickpea pasta.

Seasonings and Aromatics

• Garlic: Use 4 cloves of minced garlic to infuse the dish with its distinctive aroma.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust the taste with salt and pepper as needed.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle, smoky warmth to the chicken.
• Chili Flakes: Optional for a hint of spice.
• Fresh Parsley: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finishing touch.

These simple ingredients make a delicious homemade pasta dish. Here’s a quick overview of what you need for your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:

Preparing Your Chicken

To make your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta tender, focus on marinating and cooking. This makes every bite full of flavor and soft.

Marinating

Marinating the chicken breast is the first step to add deep flavors. Start by seasoning with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and chili flakes. Add olive oil to spread the spices and keep the chicken moist.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in. It’s key to learning how to cook chicken right.

Cooking the Chicken

After marinating, cook the chicken until it’s golden and juicy. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt two tablespoons of butter. Cook the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden.

Make sure the chicken is cooked through by checking its internal temperature. It should be 165°F. This method makes the chicken tender, perfect for your pasta dish.

For even cooking, cook chicken in batches of 2-3 breasts at a time. This avoids overcrowding the skillet. It’s important for any chicken dish, like pasta or homemade fried chicken.

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Salt makes your pasta taste better. Add your favorite fusilli and stir to stop it from sticking.

Cook it until it’s al dente. This means it’s firm but not hard. It’s the perfect texture.

Using Italian wheat pasta, like Brami Fusilli, makes your dish better. It has more protein and tastes great.

Mix the cooked pasta with lean chicken and broccoli. Cooking the pasta in chicken broth adds flavor. A little olive oil keeps it from sticking together.

For a quick pasta dish, try this easy 4-ingredient pasta salad recipe. It’s simple but delicious.

Learning to cook al dente pasta is key. It makes your dishes amazing. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend party, great pasta is always a hit.

Making the Creamy Sauce

To make a tasty creamy sauce for your pasta, start with the pan you cooked the chicken in. This way, the flavors mix well and make your dish taste better.

Starting the Sauce

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic (about 3 cloves) and finely chopped onions. Cook until they are soft and smell good.

Then, add 1 cup of chicken broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This helps mix the flavors together.

Thickening the Sauce

To get the right pasta sauce, whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer. Then, add a slurry of flour to thicken it. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.

Lastly, mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This makes the sauce even better. If it’s too thick, add ¼ cup of pasta water. You can also add ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for more flavor.

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional value per serving:

Combining the Pasta and Chicken

It’s time to mix everything together for your family dinner. First, toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce. Make sure every strand is covered well.

This step makes sure the flavors are spread out right. It also mixes the sauce’s richness with the pasta. Then, place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta. Try to use the same amount of chicken as pasta for a good mix of protein and carbs.

Save half a cup of pasta water to make the sauce smooth. Using fresh Parmesan cheese makes the sauce creamier. About half a cup of grated Parmesan per serving is perfect.

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is easy and quick. It’s ready in about 30 minutes. It’s a tasty and easy choice for busy weeknights.

Following these steps will make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthy dish perfect. It will be full of flavor and good for you.

Topping and Serving Suggestions

When you’re making a meal for your family or guests, the final touches are important. Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on top of your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta. These toppings add color and make your dish taste better.

Make your pasta meal complete with a few extra items. Serve it with warm garlic bread and a fresh salad. This mix of textures makes for a great meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty and quick.

Here’s a simple serving suggestion:

Adding these tasty items makes your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta a full meal. These ideas make planning your weeknight meals easier. They also make sure everyone is happy and full when they leave the table.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Keeping your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta tasty for days is easy. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and stops it from going bad.

To reheat, use the stove gently. Adding milk or cream can make the sauce creamy again. Make sure the chicken is hot, at least 165°F (74°C), to eat safely.

Freezing is also an option for up to 2 months. But, avoid freezing if it has heavy cream. This way, your delicious dinner will stay yummy.

By using these tips, you can enjoy this recipe again and again. It’s great for meal planning and quick weeknight dinners.

Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Making a tasty homemade pasta dish is easy. Just follow these tips to make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta amazing.

Perfecting the Sauce

To make a creamy sauce, add Parmesan slowly. This stops clumps and makes it smooth. Cooking pasta in chicken broth adds flavor without extra calories.

Don’t add heavy cream and Parmesan when the heat is off. This keeps the sauce smooth and rich.

Want a dairy-free sauce? Use full-fat coconut milk or plant-based cream. It’s a tasty, lactose-free choice. Try Asiago, Romano, or Pecorino cheese for extra flavor.

Chicken Cooking Tips

Season your chicken well before cooking. Use a digital thermometer to check it’s 165 degrees. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes to get it golden and juicy.

Use stainless steel or nonstick pans for even cooking. This prevents sticking and keeps the chicken nice.

Rotisserie chicken is a quick fix. Shred or slice it and mix it with the sauce. Heat it together for great flavor.

Don’t overcook your pasta. Cook it al dente to keep it firm. This way, it soaks up the sauce well.

Follow these tips for a delicious homemade pasta dish every time.

Making the Dish Healthier

To make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthy, try some easy changes. Use whole grain or chickpea pasta for more fiber. These options give 3-5 grams of fiber per serving, making your meal better.

Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to cut down on fat. Skim milk is also a good choice, reducing fat by about 50% compared to whole milk.

Add veggies like spinach or broccoli for extra vitamins and minerals. Broccoli, for example, has 135% of your daily vitamin C in one cup. It also has about 2.4 grams of fiber per 100 grams.

Families can enjoy a garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthy by making these changes:

• Whole Grain or Chickpea Pasta: Increases dietary fiber.
• Greek Yogurt: Lowers fat content while preserving creaminess.
• Broccoli or Spinach: Adds essential vitamins and minerals.

Use pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie or grilled chicken to save time. This can cut down prep time by 10-15 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

These changes make the dish healthier without losing flavor. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious garlic parmesan chicken pasta healthy at your next family dinner.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is loved by many around the world. It’s a hit with both kids and adults. This recipe is easy to make and tastes amazing.

It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. You can make it in just 30 minutes. It’s also great because you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time.

But, if you want to cook chicken from scratch, make sure it’s hot inside. Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the best taste. This makes the sauce smooth and creamy.

This dish can be made in many ways. You can use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option. Adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bacon can make it even better.

There are many ways to make it, like spicy garlic Parmesan pasta. This makes it a favorite for many families. It’s easy to change up to fit your taste.

In short, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a hit. It’s easy to make and tastes great. You can keep it simple or add your own twist. It’s a comforting dish for any night of the week.

FAQ

What are the main ingredients needed for creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta?

You’ll need chicken breasts, fusilli pasta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

What seasonings are used in this recipe?

It includes smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for up to 10 minutes. This lets the flavors soak in well.

How do I achieve perfectly cooked chicken?

Cook the chicken in a skillet with butter until it’s golden and fully cooked. A thermometer helps get it just right.

What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Use fusilli pasta, like high-protein, fiber-rich Brami Fusilli.

How do I make the creamy sauce?

Sauté onions and garlic in butter. Then add heavy cream and thicken with a flour slurry.

How do I combine the pasta and chicken?

Toss the pasta in the sauce. Then layer the cooked chicken on top.

What are some topping and serving suggestions?

Top with more parsley and Parmesan. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp salad.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding milk or cream to the sauce.

What tips can help perfect this dish?

Mix Parmesan slowly to avoid clumps. Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole grain or chickpea pasta. Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Adding spinach or broccoli boosts nutrition.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

---

• Author: Lucinda Armstrong
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce come together in just 35 minutes for a meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 8 oz fusilli pasta (or spaghetti/penne)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   • In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil salted water in a pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

4. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

   • Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

   • Gradually stir in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine Everything:

   • Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.

   • If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1-2 tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Notes

• Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt or skim milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.

• Freezing: Freeze without the cream-based sauce for up to 2 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 580 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Garlic parmesan chicken pasta Creamy chicken pasta Easy pasta recipe Weeknight dinner ideas Comfort food recipes