Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes

When 6 pm hits and the workday ends, we all wonder: “What’s for dinner?” This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is perfect. It’s quick, delicious, and feels like a fancy Italian meal. You can make it in just 30 minutes.

This creamy pasta dish is a hit with everyone. It has tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for busy parents, young professionals, or anyone who loves to cook at home. This 30-minute garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a great choice for a weeknight dinner.

A Perfect Weeknight Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Solution

Looking for a quick and tasty meal for a busy weeknight? This garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is perfect. It’s a homemade Italian dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s great for cooks and families who are short on time.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a hit because it’s simple and quick. You only need a few ingredients to make a delicious dinner. It’s easy to prepare and cooks in one pan, making it a stress-free meal.

Time-Saving Benefits

This pasta recipe is a time-saver. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights. The way it cooks the chicken and sauce together saves you time in the kitchen.

Restaurant-Quality at Home

Despite being quick to make, this dish tastes like it’s from a restaurant. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cooked pasta make it a treat. You can enjoy a top-notch Italian meal at home without going out.

Essential Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you need the right ingredients. The main parts of this tasty dish are:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into small pieces, these are the dish’s protein base.
• Pasta – Like penne, fettuccini, or spaghetti, it absorbs the garlic parmesan sauce well.
• Garlic – Whether minced or crushed, garlic gives a strong, savory taste to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Grated fresh for the best texture and flavor.
• Heavy cream – This makes the sauce rich and creamy.
• Chicken broth – It thins the sauce and adds moisture.
• Italian-style breadcrumbs – For a crispy chicken coating.

Adding broccoli or spinach can make the dish healthier. Using extra-virgin olive oil and more freshly grated parmesan cheese can also improve the taste.

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	1.5 lbs
Fettuccini pasta	8 oz
Garlic, minced	12 cloves
Parmesan cheese, grated	3 oz
Heavy cream	1 cup
Chicken broth	1/2 cup
Italian-style breadcrumbs	1/2 cup

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It’s sure to be a hit.

Kitchen Equipment Needed for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make this tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some key kitchen tools and pasta cooking gear. Let’s look at the must-have tools and some optional items that will make cooking easier.

Must-Have Tools

• A large skillet or cast-iron pan for searing the chicken to perfection
• A pasta pot to cook the noodles to al dente perfection
• A colander for draining the cooked pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise ingredient measurements

Optional but Helpful Items

1. A garlic press for effortlessly mincing garlic
2. A fine cheese grater for freshly grating the Parmesan cheese
3. An instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the ideal temperature

For the best results, use a stainless steel skillet for chicken. It helps create a golden-brown crust on the chicken. This adds more flavor to the dish.

With these essential and optional items, you’ll be ready to make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. It will surely impress your family and friends.

Preparing the Perfect Chicken Cutlets for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To make a tasty Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, start with the chicken cutlets. A few easy steps can turn your meal into a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Begin with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slice them horizontally to get thin, even cutlets. Season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.

Then, mix Italian-style breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese for a crispy coating. Coat the chicken cutlets in this mix, pressing gently to stick. This adds a crunchy texture and more cheesy flavor.

Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high. Add the coated chicken and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. This makes the chicken golden and ensures it’s cooked safely.

By following these steps, you’ll make perfect chicken cutlets for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. The crispy chicken and creamy sauce will make this dish a hit with your family.

Creating the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Sauce

The heart of this garlic parmesan sauce is a mix of butter, minced garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. We add a bit of flour to thicken it, making it perfect for coating pasta.

Sauce Base Components

Begin by sautéing the garlic in butter until it’s golden. Then, mix in flour to make a roux. This thickens the creamy pasta sauce.

Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring well to avoid lumps. Next, add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the cheese melt, adding a rich, savory flavor.

Achieving the Right Consistency

Let the sauce simmer until it’s the right thickness. If it’s too thick, add some pasta water to thin it. For a lighter sauce, use milk instead of heavy cream.

This sauce combines creamy, garlicky, and Parmesan flavors perfectly. It will make your garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish unforgettable. Enjoy making this restaurant-quality dish at home.

Pasta Selection and Cooking Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Choosing the right pasta type is key to a great dish. For creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, pick shapes like penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. These pasta types have features that help the sauce stick to every bite.

Cooking pasta al dente is essential for the perfect texture. Boil it in salted water until it’s tender but still firm, about 8-10 minutes. Save some pasta water to adjust the sauce later. Fresh pasta cooks faster, so watch it closely.

Al dente pasta tastes better and holds up well when reheated. This is crucial for pasta for creamy sauce dishes. It keeps the pasta delicious even after it’s cooled down.

Pasta Serving Size	Calories per Serving	Pasta-to-Sauce Ratio
2 oz per person	625 kcal	¼ of the batch

By following these tips, you’ll make a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Your family and friends will love it.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Chicken Preparation Phase

Begin by preparing the chicken for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Butterfly a large chicken breast, about 500 grams, and season it with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Sauce Making Process

While the chicken cooks, boil a pot of salted water. Cook 400g of your preferred pasta, like penne, fusilli, or rotini, as the package says. Drain the pasta, saving about a cup of the starchy cooking water.

In the same skillet, sauté 12 cloves of chopped garlic in 2 tablespoons of butter until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in 250ml of double cream, 1 cup of milk, and 100g of shredded mozzarella cheese. Grate in 50g of parmesan cheese and keep cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your liking.

The garlic parmesan sauce is what makes this dish special. For more creative seasoning ideas, check out our Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning guide which demonstrates how to perfectly season chicken dishes.

Final Assembly

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic parmesan sauce and toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out. Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta mixture, gently tossing everything together.

Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Want to try something new with your pasta recipe? This easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish is perfect for experimenting. You can add more veggies, change the meat, or make it vegetarian. It’s all about making it your own.

For a juicier protein, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. The dark meat stays moist and flavorful. If you prefer a meatless option, try sautéed tofu or extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

Want to add more flavor? Fresh herbs like basil or thyme are great. For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes. And for those with gluten issues, gluten-free pasta is a great substitute.

• Use chicken thighs for juicier meat
• Add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes
• Incorporate herbs such as basil or thyme
• Include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy version
• Substitute chicken with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option
• Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions

With these pasta recipe variations and ingredient substitutions, you can make this classic dish your own. It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that fits your taste and needs.

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Results

Cooking delicious parmesan chicken pasta is all about mastering a few essential techniques. Follow these expert tips to take your dish to the next level. Achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

1. Cook the garlic just until fragrant – Avoid letting the garlic burn or become bitter. Remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes aromatic.
2. Add the cream off the heat – Incorporating the cream while the pan is still over high heat can cause the sauce to curdle. Let the pan cool slightly before pouring in the cream for a smooth, velvety texture.
3. Use freshly grated parmesan – Pre-grated parmesan won’t melt as seamlessly into the sauce. Grate your own parmesan for better flavor and texture.
4. Practice mise en place – Prepare all your ingredients in advance for a stress-free cooking process. Measuring out the pasta, chopping the chicken, and mixing the sauce components beforehand will allow you to assemble the dish quickly.
5. Adjust the sauce consistency as needed – If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water or a bit more cream. For a thicker, clingier sauce, let it simmer for a minute or two longer.

By following these expert cooking tips, you’ll be well on your way to perfecting your garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Deliver a meal that’s worthy of a five-star restaurant.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Keeping your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta fresh is key. Whether you have leftovers or want to enjoy it later, these tips will ensure every bite is as tasty as the first.

Proper Storage Methods

Let the pasta cool a bit before putting it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents drying out.

Reheating Guidelines

To reheat your pasta, start by placing a serving in a microwave-safe dish. Add a bit of chicken stock or milk to keep the sauce creamy. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval.

Or, you can reheat it on the stovetop. Heat the pasta over medium, adding liquid as needed to avoid dry sauce. Stir often until it’s warm and the sauce is smooth.

Reheating your pasta right means doing it gently and with a bit of liquid. This keeps it moist and flavorful.

Nutrition Facts	Per Serving
Calories	405 kcal
Carbohydrates	40 g
Protein	39 g
Fat	11 g
Saturated Fat	4 g
Cholesterol	93 mg
Sodium	936 mg
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	6 g

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta again. Just remember to handle leftovers carefully to keep the flavors and textures perfect.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

To make a complete pasta meal, pair your Parmesan Chicken Pasta with various side dishes. A simple green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add a refreshing touch. They balance the creamy pasta nicely.

For a heartier option, try garlic bread or cheesy pull-apart rolls. Their garlicky, buttery flavors match the rich Parmesan sauce. Roasted veggies, like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, also add a nice crunch and fresh taste.

For a wine pairing, a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio is perfect. Their acidity cuts through the pasta’s creaminess.

Pasta Side Dishes	Complementary Foods	Complete Pasta Meal
Green Salad Steamed Broccoli Roasted Asparagus Sautéed Spinach	Garlic Bread Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls Roasted Brussels Sprouts Tomato Caprese Salad	Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Green Salad with Balsamic Dressing Garlic Bread Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio Wine

Pairing the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with these side dishes makes a complete, satisfying meal. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Conclusion

This garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. It’s easy to make and tastes great. You can also change it up to fit different tastes and diets.

Looking for a comforting Italian dish or a tasty weeknight meal? This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a hit. It combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will impress everyone.

Want a delicious pasta dish? Try this easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta. It’s full of flavor and easy to make. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

FAQ

What is the difference between chicken parmigiana and Parmesan?

Chicken parmigiana is a dish with breaded and fried chicken, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Parmesan is a hard, aged Italian cheese used in many dishes, like this garlic parmesan chicken pasta.

Does chicken go in pasta?

Yes, chicken is often added to pasta dishes. In this recipe, the chicken is cooked and mixed with creamy garlic parmesan sauce and pasta. It makes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Is garlic parmesan sauce the same as alfredo?

No, garlic parmesan sauce and alfredo sauce are different. Alfredo sauce is mainly butter and parmesan cheese. This garlic parmesan sauce includes heavy cream, garlic, and chicken broth for a richer taste.

What is Parmesan garlic sauce made of?

Parmesan garlic sauce is made with butter, minced garlic, heavy cream or milk, and grated Parmesan cheese. It also includes chicken broth or stock. These ingredients make a creamy, savory sauce that’s great with pasta, chicken, or other proteins.