If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken, look no further! This garlic parmesan chicken pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delicious meal that brings comfort to your table.
Ingredients
– 2 chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
– Lemon zest (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 600 calories, 35g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
- Remove the 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.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Slice the rested chicken and serve on top of the pasta, garnished with parsley and lemon zest if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’d like to make this dish lighter, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts or substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
This garlic parmesan chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy, not dry.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the chicken; it helps retain moisture.
- Make sure to salt the pasta water for added flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Try adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the sauce from sticking.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance for quick meals throughout the week.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties for a gluten-free option.
What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan can be excellent substitutes for a dairy-free option.
How can I make it spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a delightful dish that brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon zest optional
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Remove the 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.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Slice the rested chicken and serve it on top of the pasta, garnished with parsley and lemon zest if desired.
