Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a dish that combines succulent chicken with a creamy garlic sauce and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees satisfaction. With every bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of garlic parmesan chicken pasta (based on a 1-cup serving) contains approximately:
– Calories: 580
– Protein: 34g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is intended for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Add sliced chicken on top and garnish with parsley and cherry tomatoes, if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to make this dish lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Additionally, grilled shrimp or sautéed vegetables can replace chicken for a different twist.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For beverages, a light white wine or sparkling water complements the dish nicely.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly may result in bland flavors.
- Adding garlic too early can cause it to burn.
- Using low-quality parmesan can affect the dish’s overall taste.
- Skipping the resting time for chicken can make it dry.
- Not tossing the pasta in the sauce can lead to uneven flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Adjust the garlic amount to your taste preference.
- Let the pasta sit in the sauce for a few minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
- Experiment with herbs such as basil or thyme for additional aroma.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for breasts. They provide a juicier texture and richer flavor, making the dish even more delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the sauce. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for a customized kick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is great for meal prepping. Just store it in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, along with nutritional yeast instead of parmesan, you can create a delicious dairy-free version.
What type of pasta is best?
Rotini is ideal for this recipe as its shape holds onto the creamy sauce well. However, you can also use penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti if you prefer.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy this comforting meal, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes optional
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Add sliced chicken on top and garnish with parsley and cherry tomatoes, if desired.
