Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken is tossed with al dente pasta in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time!
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. It's a go-to recipe for those evenings when you need something quick yet delicious.
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect meal for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. With its minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, you'll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The dish combines the richness of the cream and cheese with the flavors of sautéed garlic and tender chicken, making it a delicious option for busy families.
Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also requires ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Fettuccine pasta, chicken breasts, and a handful of pantry staples can come together to create a hearty and fulfilling meal that will please even the pickiest eaters.
A Comforting Classic
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta embodies comfort food at its finest. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, making every bite heavenly. The combination of garlic and Parmesan not only enhances the flavors but also adds an aromatic touch that tantalizes the senses. It's a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for cozy dinners at home.
Dishes like this often evoke memories of family gatherings and intimate dinners, making them ideal for special occasions as well as casual weeknight meals. The creamy texture is not only indulgent but also fulfilling, ensuring that everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms. These additions not only increase the nutritional content but also add colors and textures that elevate the overall dish.
You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. This flexibility makes Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a go-to recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready to enjoy this creamy delight!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious meal.
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Enjoy your creamy pasta dish!
Storage and Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors all over again without compromising the texture.
For those looking to meal prep, this dish can also be made in advance and frozen. Just ensure you store it in airtight containers, and it will last for about a month in the freezer. Thaw and reheat thoroughly for a convenient meal option anytime.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the luscious flavors of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula or Caesar salad can provide a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta, enhancing the overall dining experience. Light vinaigrettes work particularly well, cutting through the richness of the dish.
For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, can balance the creaminess and elevate the meal. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshingly tart iced tea can also make excellent choices.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this sauce.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter version.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Savor the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken is tossed with al dente pasta in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time!
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 30g