Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Are you searching for a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures? Look no further than garlic parmesan chicken and pasta! This recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic-parmesan sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
Why is Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta a Must-Try?
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta stands out in the crowd of everyday meals because it’s simple yet impressive. Imagine sautéing aromatic garlic and onions, then deglazing the pan with savory chicken broth—these steps alone set the stage for an incredible dish. Not only is this recipe bursting with flavor, but it also caters to busy lifestyles. With only a few ingredients, you can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
For those who want to elevate their cooking game at home, this dish provides a fabulous foundation to practice flavors and techniques. Plus, it's a versatile recipe; swap out the penne for your favorite pasta shape or indulge in seasonal vegetables for added nutrition. With garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, you’re not just making a meal—you’re creating an experience, perfect for sharing with friends or relaxing after a long day.
So grab those ingredients, and let’s bring the warmth of comfort food right to your dining table!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When preparing a delicious dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, selecting the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor. Let’s break it down into two essential categories: those for the succulent chicken and those for the hearty pasta.
Essential Ingredients for the Chicken
For the chicken, you’ll be looking at a few simple but impactful ingredients:
- Avocado or Olive Oil: This will help give the chicken a lovely sear while keeping it juicy.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Preferably butterflied or pounded to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Italian Seasoning and Paprika: These spices elevate the flavor profile, making each bite vibrant.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Essential Ingredients for the Pasta
Next, for the pasta, gather these must-haves:
- Avocado or Olive Oil & Unsalted Butter: Perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic to create a rich base.
- Jumbo Yellow Onion and Garlic: These aromatics impart a fragrant depth to the dish.
- Dry Penne Pasta: Substitutable with gluten-free or protein options, this pasta holds the sauce beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and richness to the pasta as it cooks.
- Finely Grated Parmesan Cheese and Heavy Cream: The stars of the dish! They create a creamy, cheesy sauce that binds everything together.
- Chopped Parsley: For a fresh, herbal finish.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to crafting a satisfying Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta that will impress family and friends alike! Check out this guide on cooking chicken perfectly for more tips!
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Cooking up a delicious dish of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is simpler than you might think! Let’s walk through the steps together, making sure you’re prepped for a savory meal that’s sure to impress your friends or family.
Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken to pack in that flavor. In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, paprika, and your go-to salt and pepper. Next, pat the chicken breast dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. Rub that delightful seasoning on both sides of the chicken. This step isn’t just for taste—it helps create a beautiful crust when cooked!
Cook the Chicken
Once your chicken is seasoned, grab a large pan and heat it over medium heat. Add in a tablespoon of avocado oil or olive oil, letting it warm up before placing the chicken inside. Cook each side for about 3-5 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. After that, let the chicken rest while you take on the delicious aromatics!
Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a bit more oil along with a tablespoon of unsalted butter to that hot pan. Toss in your diced yellow onion and sprinkle with a bit more salt. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until soft and translucent, and then throw in minced garlic. The aroma should be heavenly—this is where the magic begins! Sauté for an additional minute to release those flavors.
Cook the Pasta
Now, it’s time to add some depth to your dish. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, making sure to scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck at the bottom. Once the broth is bubbling, stir in your dry penne pasta (regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta all work well) ensuring it's submerged in the broth. Cover the pan, letting the pasta cook for about 10 minutes until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.
Combine Ingredients and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The sauce will thicken slightly and be oh-so creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cut your rested chicken into strips and add it back to the pan. Stir everything together to blend those amazing flavors.
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta on a plate, maybe with some extra parmesan on top, and you’re ready to enjoy! Whether for dinner or a quick weekday meal, this dish is sure to delight. Happy cooking!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta experience with these delightful twists.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Variation
Feeling adventurous? Swap out the chicken for succulent shrimp. Simply sauté peeled shrimp in avocado oil until they turn pink. Follow the original cooking steps, but add the shrimp just before stirring in the cream and parmesan. This variation brings a delightful seafood flair and is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. For a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes!
Vegetable-Loaded Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Looking to incorporate more veggies? Toss in an array of your favorites! Zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach work wonderfully. Add them to the skillet right after the onions, allowing them to soften before introducing the garlic. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a splash of color and flavor to your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in those necessary greens!
These variations are more than just alternatives; they’re gateways to new culinary experiences that cater to your mood and dietary preferences. Whether you're in the mood for seafood or a veggie feast, adapting your favorite dish makes for an exciting and personalized dining experience. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Tips for Tender Chicken
To ensure your garlic parmesan chicken is tender and juicy, begin by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook uniformly. Additionally, don’t skip the resting step; letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking retains its juices for a more succulent bite.
Tricks for Perfectly Cooked Pasta
When cooking your pasta, always remember to salt the water generously—it should taste like the sea! This step enhances the pasta's flavor. For the best texture, take your pasta out just before it's "al dente" and finish cooking it in the sauce. This will allow the pasta to absorb all those delicious garlic and parmesan flavors while perfectly melding into your dish. For more on pasta cooking techniques, check out this comprehensive guide.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Pairing Side Dishes
When enjoying garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, consider pairing it with a light side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and balance the meal. For a heartier option, garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks serve as perfect accompaniments.
Great Sauce Additions
While the garlic parmesan chicken and pasta is delicious as is, you can elevate it with a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the overall flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can create an entirely new twist. The key is to keep it simple yet flavorful!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta takes about 15 minutes. This includes measuring out your ingredients, seasoning the chicken, and chopping the onion and garlic.
Cooking Time
The cooking portion will take around 20 minutes. You'll be cooking the chicken, sautéing the onions and garlic, then boiling the pasta all in one go, making it super efficient!
Total Time
You can expect a total time of about 35 minutes from prep to plate. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but is quick to prepare!
If you're looking to make this dish even more convenient, consider checking out pre-chopped garlic to save on prep time.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Understanding what’s on your plate is vital, especially when enjoying a delightful dish like garlic parmesan chicken and pasta. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values:
- Calories: Approximately 600 calories per serving, making it a hearty meal option.
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 70 grams, primarily from the pasta.
- Protein: About 40 grams, mainly sourced from the chicken and parmesan, which is great for muscle support!
This delicious meal is not only satisfying but also provides a balance of essential nutrients to fuel your day! For more detailed nutritional insights, check resources like the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive food data.
FAQ about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Using gluten-free pasta is a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you prefer brown rice or chickpea pasta, both will work beautifully in the garlic parmesan chicken and pasta recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can cook faster than traditional varieties.
How to Store Leftovers?
To keep your delicious garlic parmesan chicken and pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay good for 3–4 days. If you want to prolong freshness, consider freezing the dish. Just make sure you separate the pasta from the sauce to avoid mushiness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you're looking to lighten up your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, you can substitute heavy cream with alternatives like coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or a mixture of milk and flour to create a thicker consistency. These options can keep the creamy texture without the extra calories.
For more tips and variations, check out resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats for tasty inspiration!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
In conclusion, this garlic parmesan chicken and pasta dish is a delightful blend of flavors that'll quickly become a go-to in your weeknight dinner rotation. It's comfort food at its finest—creamy, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Give it a try and watch your dinner companions rave about it!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pan
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½" thickness
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper. Pat the chicken dry and then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat. Once hot, add avocado oil. Then, add seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add more avocado oil and butter. Then, add onion and season it with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until beginning to get tender and translucent. Add garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to come to a light boil. Then, add the dry pasta and stir to make sure that the pasta is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al-dente.
- Turn off the heat and add in the parmesan, heavy cream and parsley. Stir until the parmesan is melted and the sauce is warm and thickened slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it into the pan along with the pasta. Toss to combine. Then, serve & enjoy!
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