If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than garlic parmesan chicken pasta. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible meal!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Nutritional value per serving (1/4 of the recipe): approximately 550 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 35g fat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce. Additionally, grilled shrimp or sautéed vegetables can replace chicken for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors wonderfully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken will make it dry.
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland noodles.
- Adding cheese too quickly can cause clumping in the sauce.
- Skipping the resting time for chicken may result in loss of juices.
- Rushing the garlic sautéing process can lead to burnt garlic.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes if desired.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be used as alternatives to Parmesan, offering different flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish can be portioned out and stored for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers can enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine is ideal, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both simple and delicious!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, tossing until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
