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If you love dishes that feel like warm hugs on a plate, then you are absolutely going to adore this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken seasoned just right and nestled on a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta that’s bursting with garlicky goodness. This combination creates a rich, comforting meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or special occasion treat that will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item is carefully chosen to enhance the dish’s creamy, savory profile while keeping the preparation simple and satisfying.
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil: For perfect searing that locks in chicken’s juiciness and adds a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Butterflied or gently beaten for even cooking and tender bites.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that infuses the chicken with classic Mediterranean flavors.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt & pepper to taste: The essential seasoning duo to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Gives a silky richness to the sauce and helps sauté the aromatics.
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup): Sweetness and texture that forms a perfect base for the sauce.
- 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced: The star of the show, bringing that signature bold and fragrant punch.
- 8 oz dry penne pasta: Choose your favorite—regular, gluten-free, or protein-enriched for a healthier twist.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and depth, turning the pasta into a luscious one-pan meal.
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese: For that unmistakable nutty, creamy finish that takes the sauce to another level.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety texture that brings all the flavors together smoothly.
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley: A fresh, vibrant touch that brightens up every forkful.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by drying your chicken breasts well; this helps the seasoning stick and promotes a beautiful sear. Rub both sides with the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes per side until the internal temperature hits 165°F. The goal is a golden crust and juicy interior. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest—this keeps the meat tender and allows the juices to redistribute.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta and Aromatics
Using the same pan, add the butter along with the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re fragrant and softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. This deepens the flavor base for the pasta sauce. Now, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add the dry penne pasta, then cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes until the pasta is tender but still al dente. This method infuses pasta with rich, savory flavor straight from the broth.
Step 3: Finish with Cream, Parmesan, and Parsley
Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Stir gently but continuously until the sauce thickens to a luxuriously creamy consistency that clings to every piece of pasta. Add the fresh parsley, then slice the rested chicken breasts and nestle them back into the sauce. Give one final toss to combine all the elements, making sure each bite is packed with flavor and silky texture. Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is now ready to delight.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley sprinkled over the top adds a lively green pop and fresh herbal note that complements the richness perfectly. For extra indulgence, a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese never hurts.
Side Dishes
This dish is juicy and creamy, so pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus adds lovely balance. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also a fantastic choice to help scoop up all that incredible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, serve the chicken sliced on top of the creamy pasta on elegant plates, garnished with a sprig of parsley. Alternatively, you can prepare individual skillet portions for a rustic, homey vibe that’s sure to impress your guests without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or easy dinner option.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish even more convenient, freezing is possible. Store the pasta and chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate slightly after freezing, but a gentle stir during reheating usually brings it back together nicely.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming and maintain that silky sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Penne is suggested for its ability to hold sauce well, but you can use any pasta you love like fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Adjust cooking times accordingly if you switch shapes.
Is it necessary to butterfly the chicken breasts?
Butterflying or pounding the chicken ensures even thickness, which helps it cook uniformly and stay juicy. If you have thin chicken cutlets, you can use those instead to save time.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer, and use a savory vegan parmesan-style cheese to maintain the creamy, cheesy feel without dairy.
How spicy is the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe?
This dish is very mild and comforting! The paprika adds just a subtle warmth and earthiness, making it enjoyable for most palates, including kids and anyone sensitive to heat.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe in advance?
You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate it until ready to assemble with fresh pasta cooked on the day you plan to serve. This cuts down your active cooking time substantially.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings unmatched comfort and flavor with every bite. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself, it’s a dish that pairs simplicity with indulgence, promising a satisfying meal that warms the heart. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a creamy parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an easy weeknight meal that delivers rich, savory flavors with a touch of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce & Pasta
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 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
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub both sides evenly with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Prepare the Pasta: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil and the unsalted butter. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan to deglaze. Add the dry penne pasta, cover the pan with a lid, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the Dish: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces, return them to the pan, and gently toss everything together until well combined. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.
- Butterflying the chicken breasts helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference for garlickiness.
