Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ready in 30 Minutes
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a super simple, super tasty dinner? What about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ? It is a total crowd pleaser.
I promise you, even the fussy eaters in your family will love it. It's creamy, garlicky, and packed with cheesy goodness.
Quick Garlic Parmesan Chicken Hook
Ever crave creamy pasta recipe that's ready quicker than you can say "takeaway"? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hits all the right spots.
It is loaded with flavor, it's ready in a flash, and honestly, it's just pure comfort food.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Overview
This recipe is loosely inspired by classic Italian American flavors. Think a chicken parmesan pasta recipe without all the faff. It's an easy chicken pasta dish that's ready in about 30 minutes.
This recipe makes about 4 servings - perfect for a family dinner, or even better, leftovers.
Main Benefits of This Creamy Pasta Recipe
One of the best bits? This creamy garlic sauce for pasta is ridiculously easy. Plus, it's a great way to get some protein in.
It's also perfect for busy weeknight pasta dinners when you want something delicious but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Honestly, this ticks all the boxes. It's comfort food, but it is not too heavy.
What Makes This Chicken Pasta Recipe Special?
This isn't just another Italian chicken pasta recipe. The beauty of this fettuccine Alfredo chicken dish lies in its simplicity and speed.
The sauce is rich, but not heavy, and the garlic and parmesan bring so much flavor. Also, it's practically a one pot chicken pasta recipe.
I often whip this up when I'm short on time but want something truly satisfying. It is simple, flavourful, and ready in minutes.
Ready to dive in?
Ingredients & Equipment for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Right, let's dive into what you'll need for this absolutely banging Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Honestly, it's so easy chicken pasta , it's almost embarrassing.
And it will be on the table in about 30 minute meals !
Main Players in Our Italian Chicken Pasta
- Pasta: 1 pound (455g) of your favorite. Fettuccine is the classic, but spaghetti or even penne work great. I’ve even used those fancy spirals when I'm feeling a bit posh!
- Water: 8 cups (1.9 liters) for boiling the pasta.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Just regular stuff is fine.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (6g) . We’re not scrimping on flavor here.
- Chicken: 1 pound (455g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut them into bite sized pieces. If they are organic or high welfare, go for it. But if it is regular chicken breast, it will do the job very nicely.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) for cooking the chicken.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon (3g) to season the chicken.
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1g) because everything tastes better with a bit of pepper.
- Italian Herbs: 1 teaspoon (3g) dried herbs. A mix of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme will nail it.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted. Don't go for the spreadable stuff; proper butter is key for the creamy garlic sauce for pasta .
- Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. About 1 tablespoon. And no, garlic powder is NOT a substitute. Use fresh garlic, trust me.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Full fat is the way to go for this creamy pasta recipe .
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup (120ml) . You can use stock cubes if you're in a pinch.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50g) , grated. Plus extra for serving, because why not? Get a good quality Parmesan it makes a world of difference. Avoid the pre-grated stuff if you can; it often has a weird texture.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (1g) , or to taste, for the sauce.
- Black Pepper: ⅛ teaspoon (0.5g) , or to taste, for the sauce.
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons (12g) , chopped. This is optional, but it adds a nice pop of freshness.
Seasoning Notes That Will Knock Your Socks Off
The secret is simplicity, you know? Good quality Parmesan and fresh garlic are non-negotiable. If you are making fettuccine Alfredo chicken , add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce.
This will make it taste amazing. To make it more interesting, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
The Bare Essentials: Equipment Needed
- A large pot. For the pasta.
- A large skillet or sauté pan. For the chicken and the sauce.
- A colander. To drain the pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvs.
That's it! You really don't need a whole load of fancy kit to whip up this chicken parmesan pasta recipe .
This one pot chicken pasta uses less equipment and is equally delicious. Now, go forth and conquer this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This weeknight pasta dinners will not disappoint.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Weeknight Winner!
Oh my gosh, you guys have to try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta . Honestly, it's a total game changer for those crazy weeknight pasta dinners when you just want something quick and comforting.
Think of it as a warm hug in a bowl!
Prep Like a Pro for Speedy Success
First things first: mise en place, darling! Get your ingredients prepped. Chop your garlic parmesan chicken into bite sized pieces. Grate that Parmesan .
Basically, be organized. It'll save you a ton of time. Trust me, future you will thank you.
Time saving tip: While the pasta water is heating up, chop the chicken. Efficiency is key for these 30 minute meals !
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: step-by-step
This easy chicken pasta comes together so fast, it’s almost criminal!
- Boil your pasta in salted water. Add a dash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Aim for al dente . Nobody likes mushy pasta. Drain and set aside.
- Cook your garlic parmesan chicken in olive oil over medium high heat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . Remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pan. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Only about 30 seconds ! You don't want it to burn.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer until slightly thickened, around 3- 5 minutes .
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s all about that delicious creamy garlic sauce for pasta !
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Pro Tips for Pasta Perfection
Want to level up your chicken parmesan pasta recipe ? Use freshly grated Parmesan. The flavor is so much better. Also, taste and season the sauce. It makes all the difference!
Common mistake alert: Overcooking the chicken. No one wants dry chicken! Cook it just until it reaches temperature. Don't be afraid to use a thermometer! And if you are thinking in advance, the sauce can be made a day before.
So, there you have it. Italian chicken pasta that's ready in a flash. Forget boring fettuccine Alfredo chicken ! This one pot chicken pasta is where it’s at. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Perfection
Right, so you’re ready to whip up this amazing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta . Ace! But before you get your apron on, let’s chat about a few things to make sure it’s absolutely spot on.
Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make all the difference. This recipe is inspired by the traditional chicken parmesan pasta recipe , but we made it even better.
Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key!
Okay, so you've got this epic creamy pasta recipe . Now, how do you make it look as good as it tastes? Honestly, presentation matters.
Plating it nicely makes it look like a million bucks. Twirl that pasta, arrange the garlic parmesan chicken on top, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley.
For extra style points, a drizzle of olive oil can work wonders.
As for sides, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect. Or, garlic bread. I mean, who can say no to garlic bread with Italian chicken pasta ? And if you’re feeling fancy, a glass of crisp white wine is the perfect partner.
Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, Sorted!
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh, Keep it Safe!
So, you’ve made a massive batch of this easy chicken pasta . No judgement here! To store it properly, let the pasta cool completely before popping it in an airtight container.
It'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don't leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, okay?
Freezing is an option, but the sauce might change texture slightly. If you do freeze it, use it within 2 months.
For reheating, a gentle simmer on the hob with a splash of milk or chicken broth works best. Microwaving is fine, but keep an eye on it to prevent it drying out.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Fancy a twist on this chicken parmesan pasta recipe ? No problem! For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add mushrooms or spinach. Boom, veggie heaven!
If you’re watching the calories, you can swap the heavy cream for half and-half or even a lighter cream alternative. Also you can swap some of the ingredients, and still get a creamy garlic sauce for pasta .
A little bit of red pepper flakes adds a lovely kick if you like a bit of heat. Feel free to go wild with this one pot chicken pasta .
Nutrition Basics: Quick and Easy Numbers
Right, let’s break down the numbers, nice and easy. Each serving of this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is roughly 650 calories.
You're also getting a decent hit of protein and carbs. But honestly, sometimes you just need a bowl of comfort food, right?
This 30 minute meals recipe is a great way to get a balanced meal. The chicken gives you protein, the pasta provides energy, and the Parmesan offers calcium.
Plus, who can resist that fettuccine Alfredo chicken goodness?
Honestly, this easy chicken pasta recipe is a lifesaver. It’s quick, easy, and tastes amazing. Perfect for those busy weeknight pasta dinners when you just want something comforting.
So go on, give it a go. You won’t regret it! And remember, cooking should be fun, so don't stress too much!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta sauce from being too watery?
Nobody wants a watery sauce! To avoid this, ensure you simmer the heavy cream and chicken broth mixture long enough for it to thicken slightly before adding the Parmesan. Also, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and helps to thicken the sauce.
If it's still too thin, a tiny pinch of cornstarch mixed with cold water can work wonders, just like they do on MasterChef!
Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep elements ahead. Cook the chicken and pasta separately, and prepare the sauce but don't combine it all until just before serving. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as pasta tends to absorb it.
Think of it like giving your dish a little 'zhuzh' before serving!
What are some good variations I can try with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe?
Oh, the possibilities! For a veggie boost, toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. If you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick like adding a little fire to your Bake Off! You could even swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage, because why not?
How long does Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta last in the fridge, and how do I reheat it?
Properly stored in an airtight container, your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. You can microwave it (in short bursts, stirring in between) or reheat it in a skillet over low heat.
Just ensure it's heated through properly, no one wants a dodgy tummy!
Is there a lighter or healthier version of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta I can make?
Absolutely! You can lighten things up by using half and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce. Also, consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Another trick is to use a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese and load up on vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
A little tweak here and there can make a big difference, just like switching from full fat to semi skimmed milk!
What's the best type of pasta to use for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
While fettuccine is a classic choice and works beautifully with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, feel free to get creative. Other long pasta shapes like spaghetti or linguine work great, as do penne or rotini.
Ultimately, it's down to personal preference, but a shape with ridges will hold that luscious sauce even better!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Ready In 30
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 0g |
