Welcome to My Kitchen!
Hey there, friend! Today, I’m excited to share one of my absolute favorite dinner recipes with you: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish is not only creamy and comforting, but it’s also quick enough for a busy weeknight. I love how it brings together tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and the rich taste of Parmesan in a dreamy sauce over rotini pasta. What’s not to love?
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about some of the health perks of this dish! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing your body. The garlic, besides adding amazing flavor, has been shown to help boost your immune system. And if you opt for a light cream alternative, you can save some calories without sacrificing taste. Plus, adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes it look pretty, but it also contributes vitamins and minerals. It’s basically a win-win!
Adaptable Variations to Make It Yours
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some options to consider:
- Make It Veggie-Friendly: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or a medley of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a delightful vegetarian twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead so everyone can enjoy this dish with ease.
- Lighten It Up: Choose low-fat cream or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce without compromising creaminess.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like your pasta with a kick!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a lighter alternative like half-and-half)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain it once it’s al dente, and set it aside for later!
- While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – seasoning is key!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and no longer pink in the middle (check that internal temperature is 165°F/75°C!). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic. Honestly, this is where the magic happens! Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it gets fragrant, making sure not to burn it (we want yummy garlic, not bitter!).
- Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), stirring it gently and allowing it to come to a gentle simmer. Smell that? Pure heaven!
- Now it’s time to add in the treated Parmesan cheese. Gradually whisk it in until it’s all melted and you have a smooth, creamy sauce. You can add Italian seasoning here if you like that herb flair.
- Next, toss the cooked rotini pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Give it a good stir to make sure every piece of pasta is coated with that gorgeous garlic Parmesan blend.
- Finally, add the sliced chicken back into the skillet. Allow everything to heat together for about 2-3 minutes. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning as you please.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, and voilà! Dinner is served!
Practical Tips for Success
- If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to make your preparation even quicker.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry!
- Don’t have Parmesan? Try using other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different yet delicious taste.
Equipment Needed
Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander for draining the pasta
- A skillet or frying pan for cooking chicken and making the sauce
- A sharp knife for slicing the chicken
- A whisk for blending that creamy sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different kind of pasta? Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like will work just fine.
- Is this dish freezable? Yes! Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it gently when you’re ready to enjoy.
- What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can try half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick? If it thickens too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or more cream to loosen it up to your liking.
- Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can prepare all components and just combine them when you’re ready to serve for a quick dinner.
Let’s Connect!
I hope you enjoy this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta as much as I do! I’d love to hear how yours turned out, so feel free to leave a comment or share your delicious creations on Pinterest. Happy cooking! 🍽️
