Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent dish that’s packed with flavor, look no further than creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta. This dish features tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 large (sliced in half lengthwise)
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- All-purpose flour – ½ cup (for dredging)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Butter – 1 tablespoon
For the Sauce:
- Garlic cloves – 4, minced
- Heavy cream – 1 ½ cups
- Chicken broth – 1 cup
- Grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup (plus extra for topping)
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
For the Pasta:
- Pasta of your choice – 12 oz (fettuccine, linguine, or penne recommended)
- Salt – for pasta water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the heavy cream and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over it. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve the pasta hot with a sprinkle of parsley and a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Freezing: The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Helpful Notes
- Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Pre-grated cheese can have anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- Cream Substitute: Half-and-half can be used for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Chicken Variations: Boneless chicken thighs or pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken can also be used for a quicker option.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Secret: “Add a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic for a richer, more complex flavor profile,” suggests Chef Elena Cruz, an expert in Italian cuisine.
- Balancing the Sauce: Chef Mike Hanson notes, “If the sauce feels too heavy, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten up the dish.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? You can, but the sauce will be thinner. For better results, mix milk with a bit of cornstarch to help thicken it.
3. What other cheeses can I use? Pecorino Romano or Asiago can be used for a different, sharper flavor profile.
4. Is there a way to add more vegetables? Yes, sauté spinach, kale, or mushrooms along with the garlic for added nutrients and flavor.
5. How do I avoid curdling the cream? Ensure the skillet isn’t too hot when you add the cream and stir continuously while adding the Parmesan cheese.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
7. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? Yes, use coconut cream or an unsweetened non-dairy cream alternative and substitute dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
8. What kind of pasta works best? Fettuccine and penne are ideal as they hold the sauce well, but any pasta you like can be used.
9. How do I prevent the chicken from being dry? Avoid overcooking and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd? Yes, just ensure you have a large enough skillet to handle the extra portions evenly.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an irresistibly decadent meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. Packed with rich, garlicky flavors and creamy Parmesan goodness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy each savory, cheesy bite!