Hello, friend! If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that screams comfort food, you’ve come to the right place! I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta because it’s not only delicious but also super simple to whip up after a long day. Trust me, once you get that creamy sauce and tender chicken over pasta, it’ll feel like a little hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into this delightful dish together!
Nutritional Benefits
First off, let’s talk about the goodness you’re bringing to the table. Chicken is a lean protein that helps build muscle and keep you feeling full—perfect after a busy day! Plus, the added garlic can boost your immune system and give your dish a delicious flavor. And while we do use pasta, you can sneak in some whole grain options, or even zucchini noodles if you’re looking to cut down on carbs. Balanced meals can be tasty!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Switch Up the Protein: Feel free to use shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option instead of chicken. It’s just as tasty!
- Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition—plus they look vibrant on your plate!
- Low-Fat Option: You can lighten up the creamy sauce by using Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream—it still gives you that nice creaminess without all the calories.
Delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice: fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain it, but be sure to save about a cup of the pasta water—you’ll need it later!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter!
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a light simmer. Stir continuously to blend in the garlic.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts and combines to create a creamy sauce.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring it is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!
- Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your creamy goodness!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- To make sure your chicken stays juicy, avoid overcooking it. Once it’s no longer pink in the middle, it’s ready to come out of the skillet!
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently in a skillet with a tiny splash of water to loosen up the sauce again.
- If you want to add a kick of flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce as it simmers. It’ll add a nice touch of heat!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a handy list of what you’ll need when making this scrumptious dish:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A large skillet for cooking chicken and making the sauce
- A cutting board and sharp knife for chopping
- A mixing spoon or spatula to stir the ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Of course! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of feta for a twist on flavor.
- Is there a gluten-free option for this dish? Absolutely! You can swap out the pasta for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier alternative.
- How can I make this dish spicier? You can add some crushed red pepper flakes or even a splash of hot sauce when making the creamy sauce to amp up the heat!
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare everything and keep it in the fridge for a day. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little water or cream if needed to loosen it up.
- Will this recipe work without cream? Yes! You can substitute with milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the sauce may not be as thick. Adding a little cornstarch mixed with the milk can help thicken it!
Did you make this creamy dish? I’d love to know how it turned out for you! Share your experience and any fun tweaks you made. And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more easy, delicious dinner ideas that will make your meal planning a breeze!
