Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Quick and Indulgent Dinner Delight

Introduction to Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a dish that can transform your weeknight dinners from mundane to mouth-watering in no time, look no further than easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta. This scrumptious meal is the perfect blend of flavors and textures and will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a weeknight hero?

Imagine coming home after a long day, battling through rush hour traffic, and still needing to prepare dinner. It’s a scene many of us know all too well. This is where easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta steps in to save the day. It requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes—definitely a time-saver!

• Minimal prep, maximum taste: The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients—chicken breast, garlic, parmesan cheese, and pasta—you can bring together a flavorful meal that pleases both the palate and the eyes. Cooking experts recommend using fresh ingredients for a punch of flavor, so if you’re curious about how fresh herbs can elevate your dishes, check out thekitchn.com for expert tips.

• Customizable options: One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you want to throw in some spinach for added nutrition or swap out the chicken for turkey bacon, the possibilities are endless. You can even make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the chicken and adding more veggies. This flexibility makes it a great option for families with different tastes.

• A crowd-pleaser: Let’s face it; everyone loves a creamy pasta dish! If you have picky eaters at home, this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta will likely win them over. It’s rich, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting—a dish that warms the heart and fills the tummy.

So, next time you’re stumped for a weeknight dinner idea, remember the magic of easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta. It not only saves time but also delivers a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy. For a classic garlic flavor profile, check out what foodnetwork.com recommends on enhancing your garlic dishes!

Ingredients for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating a delectable dish like easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta starts with the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to get cooking:

• Pasta: Opt for your favorite type—spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work beautifully!
• Boneless Chicken Breast: About one pound, diced into bite-sized pieces. This will be the star of your dish.
• Turkey Bacon: Use around four slices, chopped. It adds a delightful smokiness and crunch.
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves, about four, to infuse the dish with flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated, around one cup. It melts lovely and adds that irresistible cheesy goodness.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: A third of a cup will help create a luscious sauce.
• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons for sautéing the chicken and bacon.
• Spinach or Kale: A handful (optional but nutritious!) that adds color and health benefits.

This flavorful combination is not just simple to whip up but is also satisfying and perfect for any weeknight dinner. Want to dive deeper into cooking tips? Check out this cooking resource for more expert advice!

Step-by-Step Preparation for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creating a delicious easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish doesn’t have to be intimidating. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to whip up a delightful meal that will impress your friends and leave your palate singing. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into the preparation!

Season and Sear the Chicken

The secret to flavorful chicken lies in the seasoning. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. If you have fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, toss in a few leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they have a lovely golden crust and are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for the best juicy results. After searing, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

This step is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire dish. And if you’re interested in how to avoid tough chicken, check out this handy guide for insight.

Cook the Penne Pasta

While the chicken rests, it’s time to cook the penne pasta. Penne’s tubular shape is perfect for trapping the creamy garlic sauce. Here’s how to do it:

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rapid boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add about 8 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Reserve about a cup of pasta water, drain the pasta in a colander, and set it aside for later.

Knowing when your pasta is perfectly al dente can take practice, but the effort is worth it when you get that delightful bite!

Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Now comes the best part—the creamy garlic sauce that makes this dish shine.

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Sauté 3-4 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 30 seconds—beware, as garlic can burn quickly!
2. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in about a cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes. This is where you’ll start to see that creaminess come to life!
3. Incorporate Cheese: Gradually mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

This creamy garlic sauce is undeniably the star of your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta. It brings comfort and satisfaction to the table!

Combine Pasta with Sauce

It’s almost time to dig in! Lively up this combination with the following steps:

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the garlic sauce, tossing it gently to coat every piece of pasta. Incorporate sliced chicken into the mix and allow everything to warm through.
2. Final Adjustments: If the dish seems dry, stir in more reserved pasta water until it reaches the ideal creaminess.

Plate with Sliced Chicken and Garnish

Presentation matters, especially for an dish that is as vibrant as easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

1. Slice the Chicken: Take your rested chicken breasts and slice them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Serve: Divide the pasta onto plates, artfully placing sliced chicken on top. Drizzle with any leftover sauce from the skillet.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, a bit of extra Parmesan, and a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick of flavor.

And there you have it! Your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is ready to be enjoyed. This dish is perfect for any night of the week—simple enough for a quick dinner but elegant enough to impress at a gathering. Bon appétit!

Variations on Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking to shake things up with your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, there are countless variations to delight your taste buds. Here are a couple of my favorites that add exciting new flavors without complicating the recipe.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Adding fresh spinach to your pasta is a fantastic way to incorporate some greens into your meal. Not only does it lend a beautiful pop of color, but it also packs in vitamins and minerals.

• How to do it: Simply add a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach to the skillet a few minutes before the pasta is finished cooking. Let the heat from the pasta wilt the spinach, and you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.
• Bonus tip: Pairing this variation with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can give it a delightful kick!

Lemon Garlic Twist

If you’re craving something a bit more zesty, consider a lemon garlic twist on the classic easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

• What you need: Add the juice of half a lemon and some zest while cooking the sauce for a refreshing citrus note.
• What it does: This adds brightness that can really elevate the dish, making it perfect for warmer days or lighter dinners.

Both of these variations not only enhance the original recipe but also keep things fresh and exciting. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables or herbs you enjoy! Check out this nutrition guide for more on the benefits of adding greens to your meals.

What’s your favorite twist on easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta? Share your variations below—we’d love to hear them!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When making your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, there are a few tips that can elevate the dish and ensure everything turns out just right.

Choosing the Right Pasta

• Pasta Types: Use your favorite pasta shape! Whether it’s rotini, penne, or spaghetti, the key is to cook it al dente. This adds the perfect bite to your dish.
• Salted Water: Don’t forget to generously salt the boiling water. It enhances the pasta’s flavor tremendously.

Garlic Matters

• Fresh vs. Powdered: For the best results, opt for fresh garlic. It packs a more powerful punch compared to garlic powder. Make sure to sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
• Slice or Mince: Depending on your texture preference, you can either thinly slice or finely mince the garlic.

Flavor Enhancements

• Add Greens: Consider throwing in some spinach or broccoli. Not only do they add color, but they also boost nutritional value.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a delightful freshness.

By following these simple yet effective pointers, you’ll create a memorable easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta that’s bound to impress! For more detailed insights on cooking fundamentals, check out this resource for a deeper dive into pasta cooking techniques.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When you whip up a dish as delicious as easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you’ll want to enhance the experience with some delightful serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair It with a Fresh Salad

A crisp salad not only adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta but also provides essential nutrients. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. This light acidity can balance the richness of the pasta.

Complement with Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with some buttery garlic bread. Toasted and sprinkled with parsley, it’s the perfect sidekick for soaking up the leftover sauce on your plate. Plus, who can resist that warm, garlicky aroma wafting through your kitchen?

Beverage Recommendations

For a drink pairing, try serving this dish with iced tea or sparkling water flavored with lemon. Avoiding heavy beverages will help keep the spotlight on your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

Make the dining experience even more enjoyable by creating a cozy atmosphere—perhaps with some soft music in the background. By adding these touches, your meal will be more than just dinner; it becomes a delightful occasion. For additional tips and recipes, check out Simply Recipes for inspiration!

Time Breakdown for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Preparation Time

Getting ready to make this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to chop, slice, and measure out your ingredients. This is the perfect time to gather everything you need and maybe even throw on your favorite playlist to get into the cooking spirit.

Cooking Time

Cook time for this delightful dish is approximately 20 minutes. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be sautéing, boiling, and blending flavors that come together beautifully. Did you know that cooking pasta al dente can elevate your dish? You can learn more about that technique on Serious Eats.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at a convenient 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu dinner party! Trust me, the rich, creamy taste of the easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is well worth every minute spent. Are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

When you whip up this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you not only indulge your taste buds but also fuel your body with some essential nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving:

Calories

This delectable pasta dish typically clocks in around 500–600 calories, depending on your portion size and any extra ingredients you choose to include. It’s a satisfying meal without overdoing it.

Protein

With chicken as the star ingredient, you can expect a hearty 35–40 grams of protein. This is fantastic for supporting muscle repair and keeping you full throughout the day.

Sodium

Be mindful of the sodium content, which can range from 600–900 mg based on your seasoning choices. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth can help your dish stay flavorful while keeping salt in check.

For more insights on balanced meals, check out resources like the USDA’s food data central and other nutrition-focused websites. Isn’t it great to enjoy a tasty dish that aligns with your health goals?

FAQs about Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While the classic choice for this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is spaghetti or fettuccine, you can experiment with a variety of pasta shapes. Consider using:

• Penne for a good bite
• Rotini which holds onto the sauce beautifully
• Zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option

Choosing different pasta can significantly change the texture and presentation of your dish, tailoring it to your preferences.

How to store leftovers?

If you find yourself with extra servings of this delectable pasta, storing is a breeze! Follow these tips:

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days.
• Reheat: When warming, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent dryness and keep it creamy.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Just ensure you use freezer-safe containers or bags. You can enjoy your easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta even weeks later!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! This dish can easily be made vegetarian by swapping out the chicken for protein-packed options like:

• Grilled tofu for a nice texture
• Chickpeas for added nutrition and heartiness
• Mushrooms that give a meaty flavor without the meat

You can still enjoy that delicious garlic and parmesan flavor while accommodating dietary preferences. Just add a little extra cheese for richness, and you’ll have a delightful vegetarian meal.

For more ideas on how to adapt your pasta dishes, check out this resource for further inspiration!

Conclusion on Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

In conclusion, this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience you can whip up in no time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share the table with you.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy evening in or a small gathering, this dish accommodates all. Plus, with its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a weekly go-to. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out more pasta ideas to keep your dinner plans exciting. Happy cooking!

Feel free to explore Food Network or Serious Eats for additional tips and inspiration!

Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Quick and Indulgent Dinner Delight

Print Recipe

Enjoy a rich and creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

• Author: Souzan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Pasta
• Method: stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: none

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Toss pasta with the sauce until well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• This dish can be made with any pasta shape you prefer.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, quick dinner, creamy pasta, chicken pasta