Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta for Weeknight Dinners

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delight that dances on your taste buds like a ballerina at a dinner party. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce, surrounded by perfectly cooked pasta, all topped off with a sprinkle of garlic and Parmesan. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have even your neighbors peeking through the windows, wondering what’s cooking.

This dish isn’t just any meal; it’s an experience wrapped in comfort food magic. Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting friends for game night, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta will make you the culinary hero of the evening. You’ll be met with smiles, happy bellies, and requests for seconds—maybe even thirds.

I vividly remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they devoured it faster than I could say “seconds.” The laughter and joy around the table were infectious, reminding me why I love cooking so much.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender chicken that absorbs all the creamy goodness; about 3-4 breasts work well.

• Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves for robust flavor; don’t skimp on this key ingredient!

• Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or penne; these shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.

• Heavy Cream: A must for that rich creaminess; you can substitute half-and-half if needed.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese melts better and adds depth; trust me on this one.

• Butter: For sautéing the chicken and adding richness; choose unsalted to control seasoning.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that enhances flavor without extra effort; it’s like having Italy in your pantry.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; don’t forget to taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving in, gather all your ingredients. It saves time and makes the cooking process smoother—no one enjoys hunting for garlic while the chicken sizzles away.

Prepare Your Chicken

Start by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat some butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side should do it.

Saute the Garlic

Once your chicken is done cooking, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In that same skillet filled with buttery goodness, toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this should take about 30 seconds. The smell will be divine!

Create The Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream while scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with Italian seasoning until everything melts into a creamy sauce that clings lovingly to every noodle.

Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your creamy sauce along with sliced chicken. Toss everything together gently to ensure every strand is coated—it’s like giving your pasta a warm hug!

Serve Up Deliciousness

Plate up generous servings of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of elegance—and watch everyone dig in joyfully!

Now you’ve transformed simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together! Enjoy those satisfied sighs around your table.

With these steps complete, you’ll have a Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish so deliciously creamy it might just become a weekly staple at your house! Enjoy every bite as you bask in culinary glory!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize with broccoli or spinach for extra veggies or switch out the chicken for shrimp. Adjusting the seasonings can also elevate this dish to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Sharing a meal like this brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and compliments that made me feel like a culinary rockstar.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep; just store sauce separately if possible.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a spicy kick.

Print

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich garlic-infused sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sear chicken until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
2. 2. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. 3. Add heavy cream, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until melted and creamy.
4. 4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce along with sliced chicken. Toss to coat thoroughly.
5. 5. Serve garnished with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Customize your dish by adding seasonal vegetables like broccoli or spinach. Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.