Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors of garlic, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and special, making it ideal for a family dinner or entertaining guests. The combination of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a velvety texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 600
- Protein: 36 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 850 mg
Why Make This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is not just easy to make, but it also delivers an explosion of flavors with every bite. The garlic brings a warm, aromatic quality that mingles perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish. This pasta is also versatile and can be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer it with extra veggies, a spicy kick, or even a splash of lemon for brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
## Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
## Directions:
-
Step 1: Preparation
Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
-
Step 2: Sautéing the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
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Step 3: Adding Flavor
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step is crucial for bringing out the garlic’s delicious aroma.
-
Step 4: Creating the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference.
-
Step 5: Combining All Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is covered in that luscious sauce!
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Step 6: Garnishing
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish warm, and consider pairing it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family meal or hosting friends, this creamy pasta is a show-stopper that impresses.
How to Store Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Allow any leftovers to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to loosen up the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach along with the garlic.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- If you’re looking for additional protein, shrimp or sausage make great alternatives!
- Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water while cooking; a splash can help adjust the sauce’s consistency.
Delicious Variations
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon for a bright and zesty flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Chicken Pasta: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flake with the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable-Loaded Pasta: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work wonderfully, such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. Reheat before tossing with freshly cooked pasta. -
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese. -
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Grated Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative works great. -
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is not spicy at all, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that everyone will love. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at this delectable recipe—you might just make it a regular on your dinner table! Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors of garlic, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it ideal for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
