Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of garlic parmesan chicken pasta, a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious. Featuring tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just the right balance of flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will make your mealtime truly special.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts, diced
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Cherry tomatoes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe): approximately 560 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 35g fat, 2g fiber. This nutritional value is based on one serving of garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
9. If desired, add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. You can also use grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
Serving and Pairings
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, although the texture may change slightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; make sure to check for doneness.
- Not seasoning the pasta water can lead to bland noodles.
- Using low-quality Parmesan can affect the flavor; opt for fresh grated for best results.
- Skipping the garlic sautéing step may result in a less aromatic dish.
- Add pasta to the sauce while it’s still hot to help it absorb the flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Consider adding spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to ensure optimal texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Just reheat portions as needed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, this sauce works well with various pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Choose your favorite!
How can I make it healthier?
You can use whole grain pasta and reduce the amount of cream or cheese for a lighter version. Adding more vegetables can also enhance the nutrition.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with flavor. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the creamy sauce and tender chicken, and don’t forget to share your culinary experience!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts diced
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
- Cherry tomatoes optional
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper; cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- If desired, add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.