Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
If you’re on the lookout for an easy yet impressive dish that speaks comfort food, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a game changer. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a Game Changer
One of the reasons this dish stands out is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for dinner parties. Did you know that chicken is one of the most popular proteins in the United States? According to the USDA, Americans consumed about 98.6 pounds of chicken per capita in 2021.
Not only is chicken a great source of lean protein, but when paired with the savory depth of garlic and the richness of parmesan, it becomes an unforgettable culinary treat. Combine that with the satisfying texture of pasta and you have a dish that naturally brings people together. So, whether you're cooking for yourself or planning a cozy get-together, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is sure to impress. Check out this article on chicken's health benefits for more insights.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When it comes to whipping up a delicious and satisfying meal, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. Here’s a quick look at what you'll need to create your tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta.
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or pounded to about ½-inch thickness
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Using the right oil is important as it can easily impact flavor and cooking. Avocado oil is great because of its high smoke point, while olive oil adds a lovely richness.
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
These ingredients come together to create the creamy, garlicky goodness that ties the whole dish together. For the best results, opt for freshly grated parmesan to ensure that it melts beautifully into your sauce. Happy cooking!
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Creating a comforting bowl of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. You’ll find that each step is manageable, and before you know it, you'll have a delicious meal ready to share with friends or family. Let’s jump into the heart of this recipe.
Season the Chicken
To start off your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, it’s essential to season your chicken properly. In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, paprika, and a little salt and pepper to taste. This flavorful blend will enhance your dish beautifully. Pat the boneless, skinless chicken breast dry to ensure the seasoning adheres well, then rub both sides generously with the seasoning mixture. Not only does this step infuse the chicken with flavor, but it also sets the foundation for your dish.
Cook the Chicken
Next, heat a large pan over medium heat. Once the pan reaches the right temperature, add avocado oil or olive oil, which gives a lovely richness. Add in the seasoned chicken and cook each side for about 3-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. This crucial step ensures your chicken is cooked through yet remains juicy and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite flavorful.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
Now, it’s time for the aromatics! Reduce the heat to medium-low and toss in a bit more oil, alongside unsalted butter. Adding chopped jumbo yellow onions first will bring out their sweetness; season them lightly with salt and let them cook until they become tender and translucent (about 3 minutes). Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The fragrant aroma filling the kitchen is simply irresistible, isn’t it?
Cook the Pasta in the Broth
Here’s where the magic happens. Carefully deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any glorious bits stuck on the bottom—this is where tons of flavor resides! Once the broth comes to a gentle boil, add your dry penne pasta. Make sure it’s submerged in that savory broth for perfect cooking. Cover the pan and let it bubble away for about 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Combine and Finish the Dish
With your pasta cooked to perfection, turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and fresh parsley. This combination will create a creamy, luxurious sauce that beautifully coats every piece of pasta. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary—don’t forget, you already have the chicken seasoned! Lastly, slice the rested chicken into strips and fold it into the pasta. Give everything a gentle toss, and you’re ready to serve a dish that’s not just food, but an experience. Enjoy your homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta with joy!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Add vegetables for a healthier twist
To elevate your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, consider adding seasonal vegetables. Think sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Not only do they add vibrant color, but they also boost the nutritional profile. Vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can also create a more satisfying meal. A quick stir-fry before mixing in the pasta gives a delightful crunch and flavor.
Substitute proteins: shrimp or turkey for chicken
Feeling adventurous? Switch out the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a delightful twist on your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta. Shrimp cooks quickly and infuses a subtle sweetness, while turkey offers a leaner option and a unique texture. Whichever protein you choose, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure a perfectly cooked dish that meets your preferences! Explore more about how to cook shrimp perfectly in this article and transform your dish into a new favorite!
Cooking notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Tips for achieving the perfect sauce
When crafting your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, the trick to a velvety sauce lies in the sequence and timing. After deglazing your pan with chicken broth, let it come to a gentle boil before adding the pasta. This ensures it cooks evenly, absorbing all those delicious flavors. Once the pasta is al dente, don't rush the addition of the cream and parmesan—allow them to meld together slowly for a creamy texture that clings beautifully to every bite.
Importance of freshly grated parmesan
Never underestimate the value of freshly grated parmesan for your dish! Pre-grated cheese may save time, but it often contains anti-caking agents, which can make it clump instead of melt smoothly. For the best results in your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, use the smallest holes on your grater to achieve fine shreds. This simple step can elevate your dish, giving it that authentic, creamy goodness you crave.
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Best side dishes to accompany the dish
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich flavors. A crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, bring brightness to the meal. If you’re in the mood for something starchier, garlic bread adds that delicious, comforting touch.
Creative plating ideas
Presentation can make your dish even more delightful! Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the creamy sauce and vibrant parsley. Garnish with extra parmesan for a pop of color and flavor. For a rustic touch, a sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge on the side can brighten up the plate, making it restaurant-worthy right at home!
Feel free to browse for more plating inspiration here.
Tips for making perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken in your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, ensure your chicken breast is evenly cooked by butterflying or pounding it to about ½" thickness before seasoning. This ensures a juicy interior while the outside gets a lovely golden-brown crust. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F, which guarantees safe and delicious chicken every time.
Avoiding clumping with parmesan cheese
Clumpy cheese can be a cook's nightmare! To prevent this in your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese, as it melts more smoothly. Use the smallest holes on your grater for finely grated cheese that integrates well into the sauce, avoiding those pesky clumps. A little patience while stirring goes a long way!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting things ready for your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta takes about 15 minutes. This includes seasoning the chicken and prepping your ingredients.
Cooking Time
The cooking process is a breeze, requiring only 20 minutes to get everything cooked to perfection.
Total Time
In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish from start to finish! This makes it a perfect choice for your busy weeknights. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When you’re diving into a plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, it's good to know what you're fueling your body with. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts to keep your meal planning on track:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 665 calories, making it a hearty option for dinner that can keep you energized.
Carbohydrates
This dish packs 53 grams of carbohydrates, largely from the pasta, offering a satisfying source of energy that's perfect after a long day.
Protein
With 41 grams of protein, our Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is not just delicious but also a great way to meet your daily protein needs, ideal for muscle repair and overall health.
Feel free to explore more about the nutritional benefits of pasta or chicken, as they both play essential roles in a balanced diet. It's all about enjoying your meal while maintaining your health goals!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and pasta components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta according to the recipe, allow them to cool, and then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just reheat everything together before serving for that fresh, delicious taste.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you're out of chicken broth, fear not! You can use vegetable broth, which adds a nice depth of flavor without the meatiness. Alternatively, water seasoned with a touch of salt and a splash of soy sauce or amino acids can work in a pinch. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade bone broth.
How do I store leftovers properly?
To keep your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta fresh, place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze the dish for up to two months, but note that the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it back up!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
In conclusion, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that's easy to prepare and sure to become a household favorite. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make for a satisfying meal any night of the week. Enjoy this recipe, and don't hesitate to make it your own!
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 to taste
- 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 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese freshly grated recommended
- 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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