Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta makes the perfect weeknight meal or Sunday meal prep. With minimal pantry staples, this creamy Parmesan pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s rich, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser, making it suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken and cheesy goodness will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can prepare this dish in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasonings creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion — from casual lunches to formal dinner parties.
• Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and cheese sauce make the pasta incredibly creamy and satisfying.
• Healthy Option: Using chicken breast keeps this dish lean without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, gather the necessary kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and creating a flavorful sauce.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining seasonings without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta makes the perfect weeknight meal or Sunday meal prep. With minimal pantry staples, this creamy Parmesan pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp olive oil (Costabile Brand (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off))
– 1 1/2 lb Springer mountain farms chicken breast
– 1 1/2 tsp paprika (OliveNation)
– 1 1/2 tsp oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder (OliveNation)
– 1/2 tsp thyme
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 12 oz gluten free farfalle pasta
– 4 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dry shallots (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off)
– 2 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp Gluten Free 1:1 Flour
– 3 cups heavy cream
– 12 oz shredded parmesan
– 1/4 cup pasta water
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, boil water according to the directions on the box. Add gluten-free farfalle pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Seasoning

In a mixing bowl, combine all chicken seasonings. Mix together paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

Pound the chicken slightly with a meat mallet to thin it out. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the prepared seasoning mix.

Step 4: Sear Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the seasoned chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Cook Chicken Thoroughly

After searing both sides of the chicken, lower the heat slightly to medium-low. Cover with a lid and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from pan and set aside on a cutting board.

Step 6: Make Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for chicken, add butter and allow it to melt. Stir in dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; simmer for one minute.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Add gluten-free flour to the skillet; stir well while scraping down any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; whisk until smooth.

Step 8: Add Cheese

Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted completely into the sauce. Continue cooking while stirring occasionally until desired consistency is reached.

Step 9: Combine Pasta

Add cooked farfalle pasta into the creamy sauce; toss well to ensure even coating. If needed, add pasta water one tablespoon at a time to thin out sauce as desired.

Step 10: Slice Chicken and Serve

Slice cooked chicken breasts into strips and gently stir them into the pasta mixture. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta!

How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Serving Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is easy and versatile. You can customize your meal to suit any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering. Here are some suggestions for how to serve this delicious dish.

On Its Own

• A comforting platter of pasta garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper makes for a satisfying meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the pasta for a fresh flavor boost and vibrant color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your pasta with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to add crunch and freshness.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for mopping up the creamy sauce—perfect for those who love a bit of indulgence!

Family-Style Serving

• Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl and let everyone help themselves, creating a communal dining experience that’s perfect for gatherings.

In Individual Portions

• For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in individual bowls with a sprinkle of herbs on top for presentation.

How to Perfect Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

To make sure your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly – Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency – Use reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired sauce thickness without compromising flavor.
• Sauté Seasonings First – Sautéing garlic and shallots in butter before adding cream creates a richer base for your sauce.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the finished dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes – While farfalle is delightful, other shapes like penne or fettuccine can work well too, offering different textures.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta elevates your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this creamy delight.

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy and buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the pasta, enhancing its rich flavors.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine and tangy Caesar dressing provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds color and is an excellent way to sneak in some greens.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing palate cleanser.
6. Antipasto Platter – A variety of cured meats (try turkey), cheeses, olives, and bread makes for an exciting appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you coat the chicken evenly with the spice mix before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and aim for al dente for that perfect texture.
• Neglecting to let the sauce simmer: Rushing through the sauce preparation can result in a less creamy texture. Let it simmer gently to develop flavor and creaminess.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth straight from the fridge can shock the sauce. Allow them to come to room temperature before adding them to your pan.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting this step means losing a great tool for adjusting sauce consistency. Always reserve some pasta water before draining.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• item You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.

Reheating Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta special?

This dish combines tender chicken with creamy garlic parmesan sauce, making it flavorful and satisfying for any occasion.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works wonderfully and retains all the flavors of this delicious dish.

How can I customize my Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or broccoli, or swap out chicken for turkey or lamb for variety!

How long does it take to make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

This recipe takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I prepare Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish allows room for customization with various proteins or veggies. Give this recipe a try; its rich flavors will surely please your palate!