Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes
I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce makes for an irresistible meal. Each time I make it, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter fills my kitchen, creating mouth-watering anticipation. This recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner or even a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, so it’s an easy choice when time is tight but flavor isn't negotiable.
When I first tried making this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the savory taste of garlic and cheese, elevating a basic pasta dish to something truly special. I found that allowing the garlic to gently brown in butter instead of rushing it enhances its sweetness, making the sauce even more delicious.
One time, I decided to add some fresh spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. It not only looked beautiful but also added a lovely texture. This dish has since become a staple in my home, and I love sharing it with friends who can’t believe how quickly it comes together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce packed with flavor
- Quick and easy to make for any night of the week
- Comforting dish that's sure to please the whole family
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish:
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have your ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your creamy garlic pasta:
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat well with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
And there you have it! A delicious homemade meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed mushrooms.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this creamy sauce.
→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.
→ Can I add vegetables to the pasta?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added along with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
I absolutely adore this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce makes for an irresistible meal. Each time I make it, the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter fills my kitchen, creating mouth-watering anticipation. This recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner or even a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, so it’s an easy choice when time is tight but flavor isn't negotiable.
Created by: Callista Green
Recipe Type: Classic Homestyle Dishes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat well with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sautéed mushrooms.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Total Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g