Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Introducing our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – a delightful dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta, succulent chicken pieces, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This restaurant-quality meal is quick and easy to prepare, taking only 30 minutes with just one pan.

Using simple ingredients like fresh garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasonings, this recipe transforms your kitchen into an authentic Italian restaurant. Whether it’s for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this pasta dish strikes the perfect balance between special and simple.

The creamy sauce clings to each strand of pasta while the well-seasoned chicken adds a satisfying protein boost. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table – familiar, soothing, and always welcome.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This restaurant-worthy dish requires simple yet high-quality ingredients to create its signature rich, creamy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
4-6 large garlic cloves, minced
1 cup diced yellow onion
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in this Italian garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Using freshly minced garlic delivers a more intense flavor than pre-minced alternatives. The same applies to parmesan cheese – opt for freshly grated rather than pre-packaged versions.

Dietary Modifications:

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular penne with Banza, Jovial, or Bionaturae gluten-free pasta
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with Country Crock Plant Cream
Dairy-Free Cheese: Use vegan parmesan alternatives
Oil Options: Substitute avocado oil with olive oil or other high-heat cooking oils

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into creating this delicious one-pan garlic parmesan chicken pasta. The key to achieving restaurant-quality results lies in proper preparation and technique.

1. Prepare the Chicken and Cook it to Perfection

Seasoning the Chicken

Butterfly the chicken breasts to achieve an even ½-inch thickness
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adhesion
Mix together:
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Rub the seasoning mixture generously on both sides of the chicken

Achieving the Perfect Sear

Stainless Steel Pan Method:

Place your pan over medium-high heat
Test pan readiness with the water drop test:

Drop a small amount of water in the pan
If it forms mercury-like balls that dance, the pan is ready
If it sizzles and evaporates instantly, wait longer

Add avocado oil or olive oil to the hot pan
Place the seasoned chicken in the pan
Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken:

Don’t move the chicken for the first 3-4 minutes
Press down gently with tongs to ensure even contact with the pan
Look for golden-brown color before flipping
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing

Temperature Guide:

Medium-high heat: 375-400°F
Golden crust: 3-4 minutes per side
Rest time: 5 minutes minimum

The properly seared chicken will have a beautiful golden-brown crust and remain juicy inside. This cooking method creates a flavorful foundation for our garlic parmesan pasta dish.

2. Make a Delicious Sauce and Mix it with Pasta

After getting a nice golden brown color on your chicken, take it out of the pan and use the same pan to make your rich sauce. Here’s how:

Sauté the Onions: Add chopped yellow onions to the pan and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and caramelized. The onions will pick up the tasty bits left from cooking the chicken, making your sauce even more flavorful.
Add Garlic: Once the onions are done, add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until you can smell its aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can make the sauce taste bitter.
Deglaze with Chicken Broth: Pour in some chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any stuck bits at the bottom. This will add more depth to your sauce.
Cook the Pasta: Now, add your penne pasta directly into the pan with the broth. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. This method allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious flavors while it cooks.
Finish with Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked al dente (firm to bite), turn off the heat and stir in some heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until you have a smooth sauce that coats each piece of pasta.

Tip: Save a little bit of pasta cooking water before draining it. If your sauce turns out too thick, you can add a splash of this starchy water to loosen it up.

Combine with Chicken: Finally, return the cooked chicken back into the pan and gently toss everything together. The pasta will continue absorbing the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 2-3 minutes so that the sauce thickens and clings onto every strand of pasta.

Now you’re ready to serve!

3. Serve and Enjoy!

Transform your garlic parmesan chicken pasta into a restaurant-worthy presentation with these serving suggestions:

Perfect Pairings

Steamed broccoli florets nestled alongside the pasta
Crisp garden salad with light vinaigrette
Warm, crusty garlic bread for sauce-soaking
Wilted baby spinach stirred into the hot pasta

Garnishing Magic

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top
Extra shavings of parmesan cheese
Cracked black pepper
Red pepper flakes for heat lovers

Pro Plating Tips

Use warmed plates to keep food hot longer
Twirl pasta into a neat mound using tongs
Place sliced chicken at an angle across the pasta
Drizzle extra sauce around the plate edges
Add a lemon wedge for brightness

A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a generous shower of parmesan transforms this simple one-pan meal into an elegant dining experience. The combination of creamy pasta, golden-brown chicken, and thoughtfully chosen sides creates a balanced plate that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.

Variations, Substitutions, and Dietary Options

This classic garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe welcomes creative adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Vegetable Add-ins

Fresh peas or asparagus tips – add during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking
Sautéed mushrooms – incorporate after cooking the chicken
Baby spinach – stir in just before serving to wilt
Sun-dried tomatoes – add rich umami flavor
Roasted bell peppers – bring sweet, charred notes

Protein Variations

Swap chicken breast for thighs for juicier results
Add crispy bacon pieces
Include Italian sausage chunks
Mix in pan-seared shrimp

Sauce Alternatives

Crème fraîche creates a lighter yet still creamy texture
Greek yogurt adds tanginess and protein
Cashew cream offers richness for dairy-free versions
Coconut cream brings subtle sweetness

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options You Can Try

Gluten-Free Pasta Options:

Banza chickpea pasta
Jovial brown rice pasta
Bionaturae gluten-free penne
Quinoa pasta

Note: Adjust cooking times according to package instructions as gluten-free varieties often cook faster than traditional pasta

Dairy-Free Adaptations:

Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter
Use Country Crock Plant Cream instead of heavy cream
Substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan cheese
Add dairy-free cream cheese for extra richness

Flavor Enhancers:

Fresh herbs like basil or oregano
Red pepper flakes for heat
Lemon zest for brightness
Caramelized onions for sweetness
Roasted garlic for depth

The sauce consistency can be adjusted using reserved pasta water or additional broth. For those following specific dietary protocols, these modifications maintain the dish’s comfort-food appeal while accommodating various nutritional needs.

Pro tip: When using dairy alternatives, add them at the end of cooking and heat gently to prevent separation

Conclusion: Try Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta at Home!

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe brings restaurant-quality dining right to your kitchen table. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and rich, velvety sauce creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. You can:

Customize it with your favorite vegetables
Adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences
Make it ahead for busy weeknights
Scale it up for entertaining guests

The straightforward cooking process makes this dish accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Each step builds layers of flavor, from the golden-brown seared chicken to the garlic-infused cream sauce.

Ready to impress your loved ones? This pasta dish delivers the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner or seeking a satisfying family meal, this recipe promises to become a treasured addition to your cooking repertoire.

Give this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Pro tip: Don’t forget to share your cooking journey and tag us with your delicious creations!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish made with tender chicken breast, penne pasta, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. It’s a popular choice for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions like Valentine’s Day.

What ingredients do I need to make this dish?

To prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need boneless skinless chicken breast, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, penne pasta, and garlic. Using fresh ingredients is essential for the best flavor. For dietary restrictions, consider gluten-free pasta or dairy-free alternatives.

How do I cook the chicken for this recipe?

Start by rubbing the chicken with a flavorful seasoning mixture. Then, pan-sear the chicken in a stainless steel pan until it achieves a golden brown color. This technique enhances both flavor and texture.

Can I customize this recipe with different ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or asparagus to the dish for extra nutrition. Additionally, you can substitute crème fraîche for heavy cream or use vegan alternatives to modify the recipe according to your dietary needs.

What are some serving suggestions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

For serving, consider pairing the pasta with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also garnish with chopped parsley or additional parmesan cheese to enhance presentation and flavor.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality when reheating, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can be enjoyed for several days after preparation!