Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that wraps you up in a warm, cozy blanket of flavor, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. This dish hits all the right notes with its rich, creamy sauce and succulent chicken, delivering the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just about 30 minutes and only requires one pan—making cleanup a breeze!
Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is the Ultimate Comfort Food?
The charm of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta lies in its sheer simplicity and nostalgia. The garlic infuses the dish with a comforting aroma, while the parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness that lingers on your palate. This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table, whether it’s a casual weeknight meal after a long day or a cozy gathering with friends.
Moreover, chicken is a fantastic protein source, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious. For an added kick or variation, you can explore substitutes like turkey bacon or chicken ham (source). As you cook, let the enticing flavors transport you to a quaint Italian kitchen—your taste buds will thank you for it!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Essential Ingredients for a Culinary Delight
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta requires a mix of fresh ingredients that come together harmoniously. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful one-pan meal:
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For the Chicken:
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1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil for that perfect sear
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or flattened for even cooking
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning to infuse rich flavor
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½ teaspoon paprika for a hint of warmth
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Salt & pepper to taste
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For the Pasta:
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1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil to sauté
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter for a creamy base
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½ jumbo yellow onion, diced, adding sweetness
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4-6 large cloves garlic, minced for that aromatic kick
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8 oz dry penne pasta, your choice of type
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2 cups chicken broth to cook the pasta perfectly
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1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese for that creamy, cheesy richness
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½ cup heavy cream to elevate the sauce
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2 tablespoon chopped parsley for a burst of freshness
Each ingredient plays its part in making this dish a weeknight favorite. Don’t forget to use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting results—trust me, it makes a difference! For more tips on ingredient selection, check out this top-notch guide on cheese.
Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Making your own Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta at home isn't just simple; it’s a delightful experience that you’ll want to share with friends and family. Let’s walk through the steps together to create this flavorsome dish that’s sure to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Prepare the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken. This step is crucial for flavor!
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning adhere better. Rub this spice mix generously over both sides of the chicken.
- Now, heat a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan and cook it for about 3-5 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, remove it from the pan and let it rest while you continue with the next steps.
Sauté the Aromatics
With the chicken resting, it’s time to build those delicious flavors.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of avocado oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the same pan.
- Toss in ½ of a jumbo yellow onion, diced, and sprinkle some salt over it. Sauté for approximately 3 minutes until the onion is tender and translucent.
- Add in 4-6 large minced garlic cloves, stirring for another minute until fragrant. This step is what makes your kitchen smell amazing!
Cook the Pasta
Now, let’s get that pasta cooking.
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
- Bring this to a light boil, then add 8 ounces of dry penne pasta. Ensuring the pasta is submerged in the broth is key for even cooking.
- Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
Create the Creamy Sauce
This is where your dish becomes indulgent.
- After cooking the pasta, turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of heavy cream. This will create a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine and Serve
Finally, let’s put it all together.
- Slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back into the pan with the pasta.
- Lightly toss everything until well combined and garnished with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy your delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta!
Now you have a delectable meal ready to impress! Did you know that homemade pasta dishes not only taste better but can also be healthier? Check out this article for more insights on the benefits of cooking at home. Enjoy!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Pasta
If you’re craving seafood richness, consider swapping out chicken for succulent shrimp! With that same velvety garlic parmesan sauce, the shrimp adds a delightful twist to the classic recipe. Simply sauté the shrimp until they turn pink before mixing them with the pasta and sauce. Served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish will elevate any weeknight dinner!
Garlic Parmesan Vegetables and Pasta
For a vibrant and healthy variation, try incorporating seasonal vegetables into your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Think broccoli, asparagus, or even bell peppers. After sautéing your veggies in the pan, add them to the pasta for a nutritious boost. This not only enhances flavor but also creates a colorful meal that's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!
Looking for more ideas? Check out these garlic-infused alternatives for additional inspiration.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Tips for Perfectly Seasoned Chicken
To achieve tender and flavorful chicken for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This simple step helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a lovely sear. Don’t shy away from using your hands to rub the seasoning into the chicken for maximum flavor. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix!
The Importance of Using Fresh Parmesan Cheese
When it comes to cheese, freshness matters! Opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged options. Fresh cheese not only melts smoothly but also enhances the overall flavor of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. According to culinary experts, using freshly grated cheese can elevate your dishes significantly, making them taste more robust and authentic.
Explore more tips on cooking with cheese over at Serious Eats.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Pairing with a Salad
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta experience, consider adding a fresh side salad. A mix of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette will provide a refreshing counterbalance to the creamy richness of the dish. Want to take it a step further? Toss in some sliced cucumbers and your favorite nuts for added texture and flavor. For dressing ideas, check out this helpful guide to homemade dressings!
Complementing with Garlic Bread
Nothing pairs better with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta than some warm, buttery garlic bread. The crunchy texture and garlicky aroma will tie your meal together perfectly. You can either opt for store-bought garlic bread or whip up a simple homemade version using crusty baguette slices, butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Serve it hot and watch your guests dive in!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
You’ll only need about 5 minutes to prep this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. This quick prep time makes it perfect for those busy weeknights when every minute counts.
Cook Time
The cooking process will take around 30 minutes. This includes the time it takes to get that perfectly seasoned chicken golden and juicy, and ensuring the pasta is perfectly al dente in a creamy sauce.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious meal ready to be served. Isn’t it great when comfort food is this quick to make? Perfect for satisfying those cravings while keeping the evening stress-free!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When you're whipping up a delicious plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, understanding its nutritional profile can help balance your meal plans. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Calories: Each serving packs about 665 calories, making it a filling option.
- Protein: With approximately 41g of protein per serving, this dish is great for muscle maintenance and recovery.
- Sodium: The sodium content is around 1021mg, so consider pairing it with a side salad for a lighter option.
For more detailed nutritional information, check out Healthline for comprehensive articles on food nutrition. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta can be prepared a few hours ahead of time. Simply cook everything up to the point before adding the cream and parmesan, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat gently on the stove, adding the cream and cheese to finish off the dish!
What kind of pasta works best?
For this recipe, penne pasta is recommended due to its great ability to hold the creamy sauce. However, feel free to switch it up with other varieties like fusilli or farfalle. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, many good brands of gluten-free pasta are available.
How can I make it lighter or healthier?
To lighten up your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, consider using whole-grain pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles). You can also reduce the heavy cream by substituting half with low-fat Greek yogurt, giving you that creamy texture with fewer calories!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
In just about 30 minutes, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish transforms ordinary weeknights into culinary delights. With its rich flavors and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Try it tonight, and savor comfort in every bite!
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 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta normal, gluten free or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese use freshly grated for best results
- 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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