Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner



Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the creamy goodness of Parmesan cheese, creating a culinary experience that is both comforting and satisfying. This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine, where pasta dishes are celebrated for their ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Over the years, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has gained popularity across the globe, becoming a favorite for families and food enthusiasts alike.

People love this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its delightful texture. The tender chicken, al dente pasta, and luscious sauce create a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Additionally, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to make. Dive into this recipe and discover why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680 g)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (150 g) fresh spinach
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.

Preparing the Chicken

1. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon.
3. Once the broth is simmering, add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
4. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly in the heat of the sauce.
3. Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Serving the Dish

1. Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in bowls or on plates, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Enjoy your delicious homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta while it’s hot!

Tips for Success

• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
• To make it a one-pan meal, you can add the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and cook it in the sauce instead of boiling it separately.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner with a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor. The creamy garlic sauce, combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds dancing. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also allows for endless variations—consider adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. For a delightful serving suggestion, pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to complement the rich flavors. You can also serve it with garlic bread on the side for a complete Italian-inspired meal that your family and friends will love. We encourage you to try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the dish. Your feedback and variations can inspire others to enjoy this delicious recipe as much as you will. Happy cooking!

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