The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. I remember the first time I prepared it for my family; the air was filled with the enticing aroma of garlic and Parmesan cheese that lured everyone into the kitchen. Not only is this dish indulgently creamy, but the tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta create a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, turning any ordinary evening into a delicious celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s not just quick and easy; it marries rich flavors with simple ingredients, making it ideal for any night of the week. It’s also budget-friendly, utilizing pantry staples that you likely already have at home. The kids will love it, and you’ll appreciate its practicality for meal prepping. Just imagine a bustling weeknight where you can whip up this satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes!

"I made this for my family last Monday, and it was a hit! Even my picky eater couldn’t get enough. This recipe is a keeper!" — Sarah, home cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Making The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a straightforward process that flows smoothly from beginning to end. You start by cooking the pasta to perfection, while simultaneously searing the chicken for a golden, crispy exterior. Then, you create a rich garlic cream sauce that envelops the chicken and pasta, making a dish that feels like a restaurant-level meal right in your kitchen. In just a few steps, you’ll have a comforting bowl of creamy pasta ready to serve.

What You’ll Need

To make this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 lb (450 g) twisted pasta (fusilli), or penne/rotini
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fine salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

You can also swap out the pasta type or use a different cheese based on what you have on hand. Chicken thighs can be used for added flavor, or you could use a dairy-free alternative for the cream.

Directions to Follow

1. Boil pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

2. Season & sear chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry. Season generously with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp of Italian seasoning. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp of butter. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes on each side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, keeping any juices in the skillet.

3. Build garlic cream base: Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

4. Deglaze & simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining ½ tsp of Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

5. Melt Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.

6. Combine: Return the chicken (with its juices) to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Finish & serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can be served as a standalone meal, but why not elevate it? Pair it with garlic bread for that extra indulgence, or serve alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, would complement the creamy flavors beautifully. For a cozy touch, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper on top for a kick!

How to Store

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the pasta (without the parsley garnish) for up to 2 months. For reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain its creamy texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To achieve the best results, remember to not overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken; this ensures a nice golden crust. Using fresh Parmesan cheese provides a deeper flavor and better melt compared to pre-grated options. Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to maintain the smoothness of your sauce.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your pasta! Want a little more green? Throw in some fresh spinach or peas. For those looking for a lighter option, you could swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. Adding different herbs like basil or sun-dried tomatoes can also bring a fresh twist to this already delicious recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does this dish take to prepare?
   Typically, this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta can be made in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

2. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine can be an excellent alternative.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead but combine them with the pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture.

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