Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss. The best part is that everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Combine with Chicken
- Add Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If desired, add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Pasta: If the sauce gets too thick while cooking, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli to the pasta for extra color and nutrition.
- Protein Substitute: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this dish.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to make a lighter version of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any short pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
This dish can be frozen, but the sauce may change slightly in texture due to the cream. If you choose to freeze it, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, this dish is comforting and satisfying. Plus, with minimal cleanup, it’s a great choice for those nights when you want something delicious without the extra effort. Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this savory, comforting meal with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!