Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this creamy and flavorful Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic and parmesan sauce, this dish is a comforting classic that your whole family will love. Perfect for busy nights, it’s quick to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste right in your home!
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When the week gets busy, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can feel daunting. That's where this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta shines! Not only is it a quick dish to whip up, but it also combines all the essential elements of a filling dinner – protein, carbohydrates, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together. With just a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes to prepare, this recipe is a lifesaver for hectic evenings.
Families will appreciate the variety of flavors and textures in this dish. The juicy chicken breast, tender pasta, and rich garlic parmesan sauce create a delightful medley that's both satisfying and comforting. Kids and adults alike will find themselves going back for seconds, making it the perfect choice for gatherings or a simple family meal.
Customize to Your Taste
One of the standout features of this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. While the recipe as it stands is delicious, it's easy to make it your own. Consider adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers, to boost the nutritional value and add color to your dish. Sauté the vegetables alongside the chicken for a seamless integration of flavors.
Additionally, if you're a fan of herbs, feel free to toss in fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant twist. You can also alter the level of creaminess by adjusting the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to suit your preference. Whether you prefer a milder flavor or a cheesier, creamier sauce, this recipe adapts effortlessly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be a delightful treat for lunch the next day. To store the dish, allow it to cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it will typically last for 3-4 days. Just remember that pasta can absorb moisture over time, so you might want to add a splash of cream or a bit of broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Reheating is straightforward; simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. This dish still tastes delicious the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or when you want to have a quick, home-cooked meal on hand.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Enjoy your meal!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Delicious!
Why Garlic and Parmesan?
Garlic and Parmesan are a classic pairing that brings a depth of flavor to many dishes, and this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is no exception. Garlic adds a fragrant, savory note that enhances the overall taste, while Parmesan cheese provides a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the sauce. Together, they create a dish that is undeniably comforting and satisfying, reminiscent of your favorite Italian restaurant.
Both garlic and Parmesan also have their health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and may help reduce blood pressure, while Parmesan is a good source of protein and calcium. This combination not only makes for a delicious recipe but also adds nutritional value to your meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta serves beautifully on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with a fresh salad or some warm garlic bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce left on your plate.
If you want to impress guests or create a romantic dinner, consider serving this pasta with a glass of white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay complements the garlic and Parmesan flavors beautifully, adding an elegant touch to your meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any type of pasta can be used, but we recommend using something that holds sauce well, like penne or fusilli.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with pasta just before serving.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this creamy and flavorful Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Packed with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic and parmesan sauce, this dish is a comforting classic that your whole family will love. Perfect for busy nights, it’s quick to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste right in your home!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 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 boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fat: 24g