The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
If you’re searching for a dish that embodies comfort and indulgence, look no further than The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich cream, and sharp Parmesan cheese with a perfectly cooked twisted pasta. It’s a meal that promises to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more each week!
Why Make This Recipe
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is not only delicious but also easy to whip up! The blend of flavors—creamy, cheesy, and garlicky—makes it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, you can customize it by adjusting spices or adding vegetables. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
How to Make The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
Ingredients
To bring this mouthwatering dish to life, you’ll need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 lb twisted pasta (like fusilli, penne, or rotini)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for a velvety sauce)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (for deglazing & thinning)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (divided use)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
-
Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken:
- Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 Tbsp butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
-
Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter to the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning, simmering for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
-
Toss & Serve:
- Return the chicken (and any collected juices) to the skillet along with the drained pasta.
- Gently toss to coat everything in the sauce, adding splashes of the reserved pasta water as needed for a silky finish.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
Serve your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta in shallow bowls or plates, making sure to drizzle some extra sauce on top. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
How to Store The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Tips to Make The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave Every Week
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Variations
- Vegetables: Add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- Pasta Type: While twisted pasta works great, you can also use your favorite pasta shape or whole-grain options.
- Protein: Swap chicken for shrimp or cooked sausage for a different protein option.
FAQs
1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be thinner and less creamy. Heavy cream is preferred for a richer taste.
2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth or white wine can be used for added flavor.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately to combine later.
Indulging in The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that will make every weeknight feel special. Enjoy this cozy dish that promises to become a staple in your meal rotation!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb twisted pasta (like fusilli, penne, or rotini)
Sauce ingredients
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream for a velvety sauce
- 0.5 cup chicken broth for deglazing and thinning
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated melts best
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning divided use
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little kick
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken
- Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Pat chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 Tbsp butter over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make Garlic-Parmesan Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 Tbsp of butter to the skillet.
- Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning, simmering for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Toss & Serve
- Return the chicken (and any collected juices) to the skillet along with the drained pasta.
- Gently toss to coat everything in the sauce, adding splashes of the reserved pasta water as needed for a silky finish.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
