Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, al dente fusilli pasta, and a rich, garlicky cream sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and learn how to make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken:
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Cook Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Cream and Broth:
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season:
- Stir in the Italian seasoning and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add Pasta and Chicken:
- Add the cooked fusilli pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the sauce.
- Add Parmesan:
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the creamy garlic chicken pasta with fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal with your family and friends!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pasta: Fusilli pasta is great for holding the sauce, but you can substitute with other shapes like penne, farfalle, or rotini.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier texture. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. More garlic will enhance the flavor for garlic lovers.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
Variations
Spicy Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Add Lemon:
- Stir in the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright and tangy flavor.
Veggie Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in 1 cup of fresh or frozen peas, broccoli florets, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- With Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- With Bread:
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Beverages
- With White Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
- With Lemonade:
- Serve with a glass of iced lemonade for a refreshing drink.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time? A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine everything together.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of cream? A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.
Q: Can I add other herbs? A: Yes, you can add other herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free? A: You can use dairy-free alternatives for the butter, cream, and cheese, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, rich garlic sauce, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta with your family and friends!
