Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
If you find yourself juggling a busy schedule but still crave a comforting, homemade meal, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. This dish is a lifesaver for weeknights packed with activities or family obligations. In just 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a dish that feels gourmet.
Imagine the rich aroma of garlic sautéing in buttery goodness, merging with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that encapsulates comfort and satisfaction. Plus, the best part is that everything is cooked in one pan, which means fewer dishes to clean up—yes, please!
This recipe is also incredibly flexible. You can use various types of pasta—whether it’s traditional, gluten-free, or enriched with protein—to suit your dietary preferences. Want to elevate the dish or add a bit of zest? Consider adding seasonal vegetables or swapping in your favorite protein.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover why Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta should become a staple in your dinner rotation. You won’t regret bringing this easy yet delicious dish to your table!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Creating a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish is a breeze with just a few essential ingredients and some optional extras for that personalized touch. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this one-pan wonder.
Essential ingredients you’ll need
- Avocado Oil or olive oil (to cook the chicken and sauté the veggies)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 lb, butterflied for quicker cooking)
- Penne pasta (8 oz is perfect for this recipe)
- Chicken broth (2 cups to add depth of flavor)
- Heavy cream (½ cup for that creamy texture)
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated is best)
- Garlic (4-6 cloves, minced for maximum flavor)
- Onion (½ jumbo yellow, diced)
Optional ingredients for added flavor
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon to enhance the chicken’s flavor)
- Paprika (½ teaspoon for an extra hint of spice)
- Chopped parsley (2 tablespoon for a touch of freshness)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Feel free to mix and match with herbs like thyme or basil for a personal twist. For more inspiration on ingredient substitutions, check out this handy guide.
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is an effortless and delightful experience that results in a creamy dish bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to create a full-bodied meal that’s perfect for any weeknight!
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, take a moment to gather and prep your ingredients. You’ll need:
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Pasta: 8 oz dry penne pasta
- Aromatics: 1 large onion and 4-6 cloves garlic
- Dairy: 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese and ½ cup heavy cream
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Fats: Avocado oil and unsalted butter
Make sure to dice the onion and finely mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Season and Cook the Chicken
Next, it's time to season & cook your chicken. In a small bowl, mix your Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken dry, then rub this flavorful mixture all over both sides. Heat a large pan over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Once hot, add chicken to the pan, cooking for about 3-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. After cooking, transfer your chicken to a plate to rest; this helps keep it juicy.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium-low. In the same pan where you cooked the chicken, add another tablespoon of avocado oil and a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, toss in the diced onion, seasoning it with a pinch of salt. Sauté the onion for about 3 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir, allowing it to cook for an additional minute. The aromas should start to tantalize your senses!
Cook the Pasta in the Flavorful Broth
Now, it’s time to create a luxurious base for your pasta. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping the fond (those delicious browned bits) off the bottom of the pan. Bring the broth to a light boil, then add in the dry penne pasta. Stir well to ensure all the pasta is submerged. Cover the pan and let it cook for around 10 minutes until the pasta reaches al dente.
Combine the Sauce, Chicken, and Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked, it’s time for the grand finale. Turn off the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese and heavy cream, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Tasting and adjusting seasoning here is essential. Once you’re satisfied, slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back into the pan. Toss everything together to blend those flavors beautifully. Serve warm, and watch how quickly this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta becomes a household favorite!
Cooking doesn’t have to be complex to be delicious. Enjoy!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Add veggies for a nutritious boost
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta by tossing in some vibrant veggies. Consider adding spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers—these will not only enhance the dish with color but also deliver essential nutrients and fiber. Just sauté them alongside the onions or stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture.
Swap the protein for shrimp or tofu
Looking for a different protein option? Shrimp or tofu make excellent substitutes! Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with garlic, while tofu can absorb that rich, creamy parmesan flavor. If using shrimp, add them just before the pasta finishes cooking, and if using tofu, opt for firm tofu and toss it in with the pasta to warm through. Each variation keeps that comforting essence of the original dish while offering a new taste experience!
Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Secrets to perfecting the creamy sauce
To achieve the creamiest sauce for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, always opt for freshly grated parmesan. It melts beautifully, ensuring a velvety consistency. Gradually stir in the cheese and heavy cream off the heat to prevent the sauce from separating. If it thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth to achieve your desired texture.
Recommendations for the best parmesan cheese
When selecting parmesan cheese, go for the real deal! Parmigiano-Reggiano is ideal as it offers a robust flavor profile. Freshly grated cheese makes a world of difference; it melts flawlessly and prevents clumping. Consider visiting a local cheese shop for high-quality options. Your pasta will taste like a restaurant favorite!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
What to pair with this dish
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta experience by pairing it with a light, freshly mixed green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. You could also serve some garlic bread on the side for that extra comforting touch. For an added flavor boost, consider adding steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli, which complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
Ideal presentation ideas
For a delightful presentation, serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in shallow bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional freshly grated parmesan and a few sprigs of parsley. This adds a pop of color and invites your guests to dig in! If you want to impress further, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add a lovely shine and flavor boost.
For additional inspiration on sides and pairings, check out this article on best salad recipes or explore seasonal vegetables that would complement your meal perfectly.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting ready for this delightful dish takes just about 5 minutes. You'll want to gather all your ingredients and chop the onion and garlic for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped, the cooking process will take around 30 minutes. This includes frying the chicken, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering the pasta all in one pan.
Total Time
When you combine the prep and cook times, you'll find that this fantastic Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta can be on the table in just 35 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights when comfort food calls.
Nutritional facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Calories per serving
Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta contains approximately 665 calories, a satisfying balance for a hearty meal without going overboard.
Protein content
Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish offers about 41 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the lean chicken and added cheese.
Key vitamins and minerals
Enjoy essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A (1091 IU) and Calcium (302 mg), making it not just delicious but nutritious. This meal offers a comforting yet health-conscious option for your weeknight dinners. For more on the benefits of garlic and chicken, check out this informative article at Healthline.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta can be prepped ahead for those busy weeknights. Cook the chicken and pasta as instructed, then allow them to cool and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
What are the best substitutions for pasta?
If you're looking for alternatives, there are plenty of great options. You could try zucchini noodles for a low-carb option, or quinoa for a protein-packed twist. If you prefer gluten-free, consider looking for chickpea or lentil pasta, which adds a unique flavor and texture to your dish.
How can I make it lighter in calories?
To lighten up your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, consider these tips:
- Use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Swap out regular pasta for whole grain pasta.
- Include additional veggies like spinach or broccoli for added nutrients without a lot of extra calories.
These small tweaks can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor! For more tips on healthy cooking, check out resources from the Mayo Clinic.
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
In just 30 minutes, you can savor the delightful flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, an easy one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and irresistible aromas make it a family favorite. Give it a try and elevate your dinner game!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan)
Equipment
- cutting board
- Knife
- Small bowl
- large pan with lid
- tongs
- Spatula
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 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta normal, gluten free or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese best to freshly grate
- 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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