why make this recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that you can make in just 30 minutes. It combines juicy chicken, rich cream, and savory Parmesan cheese to create a meal that feels fancy but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients :
- 12 ounces fusilli or penne pasta
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste fine salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions :
- Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli or penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust the seasoning with fine salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Serve this creamy pasta warm, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Be sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use less cheese.
variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream and broth.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of pasta?
- Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
-
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, you can easily make it a vegetarian dish. You can include mushrooms or other vegetables for some extra flavor.
-
How can I make it ahead of time?
- You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Mix them with the pasta just before serving for the best texture.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A quick and delicious pasta dish that combines juicy chicken, rich cream, and savory Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fusilli or penne pasta
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste fine salt
- to taste black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli or penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning with fine salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. Can customize with vegetables or adjust spice levels.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pasta, chicken, creamy sauce, garlic, easy dinner