Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Ultimate Comfort Food Experience

Cooking has always been my sanctuary—a place where I can escape the chaos of daily life and create something truly special. One of my all-time favorite dishes to make is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Its rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken transport me back to my childhood, where Sunday dinners were the highlight of the week. This dish is not just about nourishment; it’s about creating memories and connecting with loved ones over a delicious meal.

Every time I prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, I’m reminded of the joy that simple ingredients can bring. The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, combined with the savory parmesan, fills the kitchen with warmth and anticipation. This recipe is a celebration of flavors that brings comfort and happiness to anyone who tastes it. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion with friends and family.

The magic of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in its ability to transform basic pantry staples into a gourmet experience. With each bite, there’s a symphony of flavors—garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken—harmoniously coming together. This dish embodies everything I love about cooking: simplicity, flavor, and the power to bring people together. Join me in exploring this delightful recipe that promises to be a hit at your dining table.

Let’s dive into the art of making this delightful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. With a few straightforward steps and a handful of ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress both family and friends. Embrace the joy of cooking and let this dish be your next go-to recipe for any occasion.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in a savory and satisfying dish with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. Learn how to create a delicious creamy pasta dish today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or beaten down to about 1/2” thickness
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) paprika
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup (240 ml))
• 4–6 large cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (227 g) dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free or protein pasta)
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (100 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Thoroughly coat both sides of the chicken breast with this mixture after patting it dry.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once warmed, pour in olive oil and place the seasoned chicken in the pan. Cook each side for 3-5 minutes until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F. Take the chicken out of the pan and let it rest.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low and add more olive oil along with vegetable oil. Toss in the diced onion, sprinkle with salt, and cook while stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for another minute.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the pan to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to gently boil, then add the dry pasta, ensuring it’s fully covered by the liquid.
5. Put the lid on the pan and let the pasta cook for 10 minutes or until it reaches an al-dente texture.
6. Turn off the heat and mix in the parmesan cheese, coconut milk, and chopped parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thick. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Cut the rested chicken into strips and combine it with the pasta in the pan. Toss everything together, then serve and enjoy your meal!

Notes

• Use freshly grated parmesan for a more flavorful dish.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Substitute coconut milk with heavy cream for a richer sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan Seared, Boiling, Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 35g

Keywords: chicken pasta recipe, creamy parmesan pasta, italian chicken skillet, garlic parmesan chicken, easy chicken dinner

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: A Culinary Delight

Fundamentals

The foundation of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its blend of rich, savory flavors. Start with high-quality chicken breast, which you will butterfly or flatten to ensure even cooking. Seasoning the chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper lays the groundwork for the dish’s flavor profile. This combination infuses the chicken with herbal and spicy notes, setting the stage for a delicious meal.

Another essential component is the creamy sauce. The key to its luscious texture is the mix of parmesan cheese and coconut milk. Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, while coconut milk lends creaminess without being overly heavy. Together, they create a sauce that coats the pasta beautifully, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the last. For more creamy pasta inspirations, check out this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preparing the chicken. Pat it dry before thoroughly coating it with the seasoning mixture. This step is crucial as it ensures the spices adhere to the chicken, maximizing flavor. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees the chicken remains juicy and tender.

In the same skillet, create the base of the sauce by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in olive and vegetable oils. This aromatic mixture forms the backbone of the sauce, releasing flavors that enhance the overall dish. As the onions turn translucent, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, which helps lift any browned bits from the pan, adding depth to the sauce.

Creating the Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Technique

The technique for crafting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta involves careful layering of flavors. Start by simmering the dry penne pasta in the chicken broth until it reaches al-dente perfection. This method not only cooks the pasta but also infuses it with savory notes, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Once the pasta is ready, turn off the heat and introduce the parmesan cheese and coconut milk. Stir continuously until the cheese melts, creating a velvety sauce that clings to each pasta piece. The final touch is adding chopped parsley, which brings a fresh, herbaceous note, balancing the richness of the sauce. This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta tutorial offers additional insights into mastering this technique.

Tips/tricks

For best results, ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This allows for more even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out. When seasoning, don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, as personal preference plays a significant role in the dish’s final flavor.

To elevate the dish, experiment with different pasta types like gluten-free or protein pasta. This adds variety and caters to dietary preferences without compromising on taste. For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can subtly enhance the dish’s flavor profile, adding a delightful kick.

Elevating Your Creamy Parmesan Pasta Experience

Perfecting results

Achieving the perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is about balancing flavors and textures. The chicken should be moist and perfectly seasoned, while the pasta must be cooked to al-dente, offering a slight bite that complements the creamy sauce. For inspiration, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake provides a comforting variation on the classic dish.

If the sauce becomes too thick, incorporate a splash of chicken broth to reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, a bit more parmesan can thicken it without altering the flavor significantly. Mastering these adjustments ensures you achieve a flawless dish every time.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you encounter issues with the pasta sticking together, a quick stir every few minutes during cooking can help. Additionally, if your chicken seems dry, ensure it’s cooked at medium heat and not overdone. For variety, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to introduce new flavors and textures to the dish.

For those interested in exploring further, this Sous Vide Garlic Cilantro Spatchcock Chicken offers a unique cooking method that can be adapted for this dish. The sous vide technique locks in moisture and flavor, providing an alternative way to prepare the chicken.

Serving Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a vital role in the dining experience. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color and a sprinkle of parmesan for added flavor. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also elevates the overall dining experience.

For a family-style serving, arrange the pasta in a large serving dish and place the sliced chicken on top. This method allows guests to appreciate the dish’s full presentation before diving in. To explore more about serving styles, check out this Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe.

Pairings/storage

Pair this dish with a simple side salad or crusty bread to complement the creamy texture. These pairings add balance and variety to the meal, enhancing the dining experience. For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

When preparing for a gathering, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored until guests arrive. Its flavors meld beautifully over time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining. For more inspiration on storing and serving pasta dishes, visit this Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings people together with its rich flavors and comforting textures. The combination of tender chicken, al-dente pasta, and a creamy parmesan sauce creates a memorable meal that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to please.

Its strength lies in its simplicity, allowing even novice cooks to create something special. With a few ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can achieve a gourmet result that rivals any restaurant offering. The ability to customize and adapt the recipe makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire, ensuring that your culinary adventures are always exciting and rewarding.

Embrace the joy of cooking and let Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta become a staple in your kitchen. Its timeless appeal and delicious taste make it a favorite for all occasions, promising to delight your taste buds and bring warmth to your dining table.

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