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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Learn how to make this easy, 30-minute recipe with rich, flavorful ingredients the whole family will love.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce and pasta. This easy chicken pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving something delicious yet quick. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, and pasta, you can create a meal that tastes just like something you’d find at a restaurant. The beauty of this garlic parmesan chicken pasta is its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a comfort food pasta option, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your preferences—whether you want to add vegetables or make it spicy, this recipe works every time!
Ingredients
To make this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breasts (or thighs for extra flavor)
- Pasta (any type you prefer—spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine work great)
- Butter and olive oil for sautéing
- Garlic, finely minced for that rich, aromatic flavor
- Heavy cream for the creamy texture
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for the best flavor
- Chicken broth for extra depth of taste
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredients List:
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast , cut into thin cutlets
1/3 cup Italian style bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed
For the Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce
16 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
6 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, pressed
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. You can also add some spinach or broccoli if you want to include vegetables for extra nutrition. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to use what you have on hand!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Start by boiling your choice of pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in the remaining oil for 1 minute. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the pan with the pasta. Toss everything in the creamy sauce until well coated.
Serve your delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley!
Tips for Best Results
Here are a few tips to make your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even better:
- Use fresh parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a smoother, richer flavor.
- To make the sauce extra creamy, you can add more heavy cream or even a splash of milk if you prefer a lighter version.
- If you want to thicken the sauce, cook it longer to reduce the liquid and intensify the flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or grilled chicken thighs for a different twist.
- Don’t forget to season well with Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even a bit of lemon juice for brightness.
These small tweaks can elevate your dish and make it just right for your taste!
Variations & Substitutions
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to fit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and replace it with mushrooms, tofu, or even roasted vegetables.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for a satisfying alternative.
- Dairy-free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use vegan parmesan.
- Low-carb: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a healthier, low-carb version.
- Extra protein: Add bacon, sausage, or grilled shrimp for more protein in your dish.
These substitutions allow you to tailor the dish to fit your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help bring back the creamy texture.
If you want to freeze it, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. Keep in mind that pasta may absorb some of the sauce while frozen, so you may need to add extra cream or broth when reheating.
This makes for a perfect meal prep recipe, as it stores well and reheats without losing its delicious flavor!
FAQ – About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and tenderness to the dish.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready, just combine and reheat.
Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Try adding spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the sauce, reduce it longer or add a little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
These answers should cover some of the most common concerns and help make the recipe even more adaptable!
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with these sides for a more rounded dinner:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- For a more filling meal, serve it with roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus.
- A glass of white wine, like a crisp Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
These side dishes enhance the overall meal and add extra flavor and variety to your dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both quick and full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re a fan of chicken pasta recipes or craving a creamy garlic pasta, this dish brings it all together in one delicious, easy-to-make meal. With the flexibility to add vegetables or protein variations, it’s a dish that can be tailored to fit any preference.
The creamy texture, paired with the rich garlic and parmesan sauce, makes it an instant favorite among family-friendly pasta recipes. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that’s even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or preparing for a busy week ahead, this garlic parmesan chicken pasta will satisfy every time! So, grab your ingredients and get cooking — a tasty, easy, and satisfying meal is just a few steps away.
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