Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Dinner Idea! 🍝🧄🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dinner, look no further than the Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create an unforgettable weeknight meal. Its velvety texture and savory notes make it a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
2. Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- 1 lb (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine All Components
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Parmesan Pasta
To keep your pasta fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions for Cheesey and Savory Chicken Pasta
This Savory Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green side salad, such as Thai cucumber salad, or some roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top for presentation and flavor enhancement.
6. FAQs About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they are evenly cooked and sliced into bite-sized pieces.
What are good substitutions for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of flour or cream cheese to thicken.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The entire preparation, cooking, and assembly process typically takes around 30 minutes, making it an excellent quick and easy dinner idea.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: This durable cookware set makes sautéing the chicken and simmering the sauce effortless and mess-free, providing even heat distribution.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Perfect for chopping garlic, parsley, or other garnishes quickly and safely.
- Cuisinart Compact Automatic Bread Maker: Ideal if you want to make homemade bread to serve alongside your pasta, elevating your dinner experience.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1: Use this versatile air fryer to prepare crispy sides or even roasted vegetables to complement your dish.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an effortless yet indulgent dinner option that combines savory flavors with creamy textures. Its quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s adaptable to various dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll soon be enjoying a gourmet-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Give this recipe a try and elevate your pasta game today!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Dinner Idea!
Discover the irresistible Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a quick and easy dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken combined with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta creates a flavorful, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta dish is a must-try for food enthusiasts seeking comfort and gourmet taste in one plate.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 12 oz (340g) your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir well to coat everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwaves, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk mixed with a little flour or cream cheese.
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option, ensuring even cooking and slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg