Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a creamy Parmesan sauce infused with garlic. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering rich flavors and a luxurious texture that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts (500g / 1 lb), sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
The Pasta:
- 400g (14 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup (60ml) pasta water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.
Prepare the chicken:
Season chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup (60ml) of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Then Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in cream or milk until smooth.
Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Combine and serve:
Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Tips:
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor.
- Season the Chicken Well: Use salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning to enhance the chicken’s taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce.
- Create a Creamy Sauce: Combine heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and rich.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Use starchy pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Variations:
- Vegetable Addition: Add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a healthy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Include red chili flakes for heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in mozzarella or Gruyère for extra creaminess.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh parsley or basil as a garnish.
- Bacon Twist: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or quinoa pasta.