Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Easy Weeknight Comfort Food
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Introduction:
When the week gets busy, we all crave something warm, comforting, and easy to make, right? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hits the spot! Packed with tender chicken, rich garlic flavor, and a silky parmesan sauce, this dish is perfect for a family meal or even for a solo indulgence. Plus, you only need a few ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouth-watering pasta in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 8 oz fettuccine or your pasta of choice
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup spinach (optional for extra nutrition)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don’t have hours to cook.
- Simple Ingredients: You only need pantry staples like pasta, parmesan, and garlic.
- Family Favorite: Both kids and adults love it because of the rich, creamy flavor.
- Versatile: You can add spinach or swap chicken for shrimp for a fun twist.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine (or preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps thicken the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp of butter and melt it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you go, and bring to a simmer.
Once the cream is bubbling, whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine & Serve
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined. If you’re adding spinach, stir it in now and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy creation!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Use Fresh Garlic: The flavor of fresh garlic makes a huge difference. Mince it just before cooking to maximize its pungency.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy and tender, cook it until just done—about 165°F internal temperature.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Adding some of the starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a silky texture.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for a heartier meal. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
FAQ Section:
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half, but the sauce may be slightly less thick. You can also add a small spoon of flour to thicken it up if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s possible to freeze this pasta, creamy sauces tend to change texture after thawing. For best results, I recommend enjoying this fresh or within a few days from the fridge.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families:
This recipe is not only quick and easy, but it’s also highly adaptable for picky eaters. You can keep it classic with just chicken, pasta, and sauce or throw in extra veggies like spinach or broccoli to sneak in some greens for the kids.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish to serve on a busy weeknight or just want to treat yourself to a cozy, home-cooked meal, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta won’t disappoint. With rich flavors and a creamy texture, it’s the perfect dish to add to your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and let me know how you liked it in the comments!