Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Enjoy a rich and creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta that is perfect for any occasion. The Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only a delightful dish, but it also showcases tender chicken enveloped in a luscious sauce, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With the robust flavors of garlic and savory parmesan cheese, this pasta dish stands out as a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates simple chicken and pasta.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily adjust the ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! This dish is sure to please picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, reducing cleanup time after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the fettuccine to perfection without sticking.
• Skillet: Used for cooking the chicken and creating the creamy sauce, allowing for even heat distribution.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the sauce, preventing lumps.
• Knife and Cutting board: Necessary for chopping chicken and mincing garlic efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces fettuccine pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the chicken pieces.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet:
1. Melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the garlic:
1. Whisk to combine while cooking for 1 minute.
2. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream.
3. Stir continuously until sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove skillet from heat:
1. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted.
2. Ensure sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

Return cooked chicken and fettuccine to skillet:
1. Toss everything together to evenly coat pasta in creamy sauce.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Transfer pasta to a serving dish:
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a casual and inviting presentation. Allow everyone to help themselves, making it perfect for family gatherings.

Individual Plates

• Dish out individual portions and garnish each plate with fresh parsley. This adds a touch of elegance for special occasions or dinner parties.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the pasta with warm garlic bread. The crispy texture complements the creamy sauce and enhances the overall flavor experience.

Side Salad

• Offer a light side salad dressed with vinaigrette. It provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

To achieve the perfect Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, consider these helpful tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried versions.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your fettuccine is cooked al dente for the best texture. This prevents mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow your sauce to simmer and thicken properly. This develops rich flavors that elevate your dish.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality parmesan cheese for a deeper, more authentic taste. Grating it fresh will yield better melting results.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta with the right sides can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that never goes out of style, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a satisfying crunch alongside creamy pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the pasta.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings warmth and sweetness, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
6. Antipasto Platter
   A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers a flavorful appetizer before diving into your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong pasta: Always choose fettuccine or another flat pasta for a creamy sauce. It holds the sauce better than shapes like penne or rotini.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Cook until just browned and no longer pink inside for juicy pieces.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can lead to bland pasta. Always taste your sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping the flour step: Flour helps thicken the sauce. If you skip this step, your sauce may end up too thin and watery.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your cream and broth are at room temperature before adding them to the pan. This helps create a smooth, creamy texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: You can store leftover Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the pasta fresh and prevent it from absorbing odors.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Duration: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of cream or broth. Stir in the pasta and heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese in Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Yes! While parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.

How can I customize Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition or substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta stores well and is perfect for meal prep for busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Pair this delicious dish with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not just an easy weeknight dinner; it’s also versatile enough for special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins. Enjoy this delightful dish that promises comfort and satisfaction every time you make it!