Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken with a creamy, garlicky sauce and the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings. The best part? It uses simple pantry staples and can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal or as part of a Sunday meal prep, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
This dish stands out because it’s quick, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. The combination of perfectly seared chicken breast and a creamy Parmesan garlic sauce makes this pasta dish irresistible. Not only is it full of flavor, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for families looking for a satisfying yet affordable meal. Plus, the recipe is versatile—add vegetables or switch up the protein to create new variations each time!
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta:
- Olive Oil: Adds a rich, smooth texture when cooking the chicken.
- Chicken Breast: The lean protein that serves as the heart of this dish.
- Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor to the chicken.
- Oregano: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor to the chicken seasoning.
- Garlic Powder: A must for the savory, aromatic flavor in both the chicken and the sauce.
- Thyme: Complements the garlic and adds an herbal note to the dish.
- Black Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors with a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Farfalle Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Butter: Creates a luscious base for the sauce.
- Shallots: Provides a sweet, mild onion flavor for the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning: Offers a mix of herbs to deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth to the sauce.
- Gluten-Free Flour: Helps thicken the sauce without gluten.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature cheesy flavor.
- Pasta Water: Used to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help it coat the pasta perfectly.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to tweak the recipe based on dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry, here are some alternatives:
- Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful option, swap chicken breasts with boneless skinless thighs.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Use any gluten-free pasta like rice or corn pasta if farfalle is unavailable.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or vegan cream cheese.
- Add Vegetables: To boost nutrition, toss in some spinach, kale, or broccoli during the final stages of cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Begin by boiling your pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside, saving a bit of pasta water for later use.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness, then season both sides with the spice mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and cook the chicken for another 10-12 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, then slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Finish the Dish: Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pasta. Stir gently to combine, and your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is ready to serve!
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Thin Sauce: If your sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time to reach the perfect creamy consistency.
- Salt the Pasta Water: Always add salt to the water when boiling pasta. This step prevents the pasta from sticking together and enhances its flavor.
- Avoid Burnt Butter: Make sure the skillet isn’t too hot when adding butter. Let the heat reduce to medium-low to avoid burning the butter.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This helps lock in the juices, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta pairs well with simple sides like a green salad or roasted vegetables. For an extra indulgence, serve with garlic bread or soft bread dipped in a mix of olive oil and herbs.
If you’re in the mood for a twist, try these variations:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat that complements the creamy garlic base.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for plant-based protein or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meatless version.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of pasta water to revive the creamy texture. If you’re meal prepping, the flavors only get better as the dish sits!
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy.
Conclusion
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals. The creamy garlic sauce, paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a comforting plate of food that everyone will enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or make something everyone in the family will love, this recipe is the answer.
FAQ
1. What can I serve with Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Try it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it with a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli to add some greens to your plate.
2. Can I make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time. The dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply use a skillet over low heat, adding some pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.
3. How can I make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can easily make this dish spicier by adding red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste-test to ensure it reaches your desired spice level without overwhelming the flavors.
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Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, hearty dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a simple, easy-to-make comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a family dinner. The dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ lb skinless chicken breast
- 1 ½ tsp paprika
- 1 ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp dry shallots
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup pasta water
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to the directions for al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pound the chicken to an even thickness and coat with the seasoning on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on each side until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and add shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute. Add the gluten-free flour and stir to combine.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, forming a smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Slice the rested chicken and add to the pasta. Stir gently to combine, then serve.
Notes
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
- Always salt the pasta water before boiling to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain moisture and tenderness.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, replace butter, cream, and cheese with suitable plant-based alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 521 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 413mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 137mg
