Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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In the realm of quick weeknight dinners, nothing quite compares to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce while the aroma of roasted garlic dances through the air. Chicken Pesto Pasta It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, promising comfort and satisfaction in just 30 minutes.

This dish brings back memories of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the room and everyone fought over the last bite. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a relaxed Sunday, this creamy delight is perfect for any occasion, making your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This flavorful dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making dinner time stress-free
The combination of garlic and parmesan creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds
Its creamy texture makes it visually appealing and comforting on chilly nights
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand

I remember serving this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds, leaving me to wonder if I should’ve made more. Garlic Butter Chicken Traybake.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically use about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on your crowd size.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; there’s nothing worse than sad garlic!
Heavy Cream: The secret to that luscious sauce; don’t skimp on this liquid gold.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if possible; it adds superior flavor and creaminess.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Opt for your favorite shape; they all soak up the sauce wonderfully.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding that rich Mediterranean flair.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every single ingredient in this dish.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle at the end adds color and freshness; plus, it makes you look fancy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients; have them chopped and ready to go so you can seamlessly create your masterpiece.

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining for added creaminess later.

Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic once the chicken is done cooking. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic is not cute!

Create the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic, stirring gently as it simmers. Garlic Parmesan Potatoes Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese until melted and luscious.

Toss It All Together: Combine drained pasta with the creamy sauce in the skillet. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency; it should be silky but not soupy. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.

Enjoying Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta means savoring each bite as you bask in its creamy goodness! Whether it’s a quick dinner or a delightful surprise for guests, this dish shines bright on any table. Smoked Salmon Pasta. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.

You Must Know

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a game-changer for weeknight dinners
It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat
The rich aroma will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting their dinner plate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the silky sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve at once.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add spinach for extra nutrients and color. Experimenting with different ingredients makes this dish uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain that creamy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh garlic for a punchy flavor; dried garlic won’t provide the same taste
Cook pasta al dente so it holds up well in the sauce
Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning makes all the difference!

Cooking this dish reminds me of a family gathering where laughter echoed through our kitchen while we savored every bite together.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber to your meal.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be great alternatives if you’re dairy-free.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat!