The aroma wafting from the pan as you sauté garlic is nothing short of heavenly. Picture this: creamy, dreamy sauce enveloping tender pasta and chicken, transforming dinner into a delightful experience. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Dinner!) is not just a meal; it’s an event waiting to happen, perfect for a cozy weeknight or an impromptu dinner party. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner options recipe.
Imagine sitting down with family or friends, everyone eagerly digging into their plates, the laughter and chatter punctuated by the slurping of noodles. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary wizard, all in just thirty minutes! If you’re ready to elevate your dinner game while keeping the stress levels low, this recipe is about to become your go-to.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that pleases everyone at the table
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry
Sharing this dish at family gatherings always earns me compliments and requests for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts based on how many guests you’re feeding; they cook quickly and stay juicy.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for an aromatic punch; don’t skimp—more garlic equals more flavor.
Pasta of Your Choice: Fettuccine or penne work great here; just remember to cook it al dente for the best texture.
Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess comes from; opt for high-quality cream for luscious results.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it melts beautifully and adds depth to the sauce.
Olive Oil: A splash helps cook the chicken without sticking; plus, it enhances flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the dish’s natural flavors—don’t forget them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic and Cream: Once chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream, stirring well.
Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce. Stir continuously until melted and smooth—this will be your creamy masterpiece!
Toss Everything Together: Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the sauce along with drained pasta. Toss everything together gently until well-coated—adding reserved pasta water if needed for smoother consistency.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate up your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta while it’s hot! Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Get ready for rave reviews!
With this recipe in your back pocket, weeknight dinners are about to get a serious upgrade! The blend of flavors—from garlicky goodness to rich creaminess—will have everyone asking when you’ll make it again. Plus, who doesn’t love having dinner ready in just thirty minutes? That’s right—you can finally enjoy more time with loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta delivers not only flavor but also comfort in every bite
- The aroma of garlic fills your kitchen, making it an inviting space for everyone to gather
- It’s a dish that promises satisfaction without the fuss
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in juices, then cook pasta while preparing the creamy sauce for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to retain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged
- Make sure your chicken is at room temperature for even cooking
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key to a perfect texture
Sometimes, I still remember that one dinner party where my friends devoured this pasta dish and begged for the recipe. Their reactions made all those cooking trials worth it!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well, but keep cooking times in mind.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep; just store portions in separate containers.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or milk mixed with cornstarch as a lighter option.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious meal that transforms a simple dinner into an indulgent experience. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up tender chicken and pasta enveloped in a rich garlic cream sauce that will impress family and friends alike. This versatile dish is not only packed with flavor but also customizable for any occasion, making it your new go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and let rest.
- Add Garlic and Cream: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan while stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Toss Everything Together: Slice the rested chicken, return it to the skillet with drained pasta, and toss gently to combine. Add reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate the creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For additional flavor, consider adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Experiment with different cheeses for unique variations.
