The aroma of garlic mingling with the rich, creamy sauce creates an irresistible invitation to dinner. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Dinner!) is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug on a plate that warms your soul.
Picture this: a hectic weeknight, everyone’s tired and hungry, yet you whip up this dish in no time. Family members gather around the table, their eyes lighting up as the pasta twirls with creamy goodness. It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavors create a comforting experience everyone will enjoy
- Visually, the dish dazzles with its creamy sheen and vibrant herbs, pleasing even the pickiest eaters
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat!
One memorable evening, my friends came over for dinner. As I served this dish, their delighted reactions filled the room with laughter and compliments.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work great for this recipe; adjust based on your crowd size.
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Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; roasting them elevates their sweetness.
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Pasta: I prefer fettuccine for its ability to hold onto the creamy sauce but feel free to use any type you love.
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Heavy Cream: A key player in creating that luscious sauce; opt for full-fat for the best results.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; avoid pre-grated for better melting and flavor.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and adds freshness; don’t skip it!
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Olive Oil: A drizzle helps cook the chicken and adds richness; choose high-quality oil if possible.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop your garlic and parsley finely while dreaming about how delicious everything will taste.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well but reserve some pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
Add Garlic and Cream : Stir in minced garlic until fragrant—about 1 minute—and then pour in heavy cream. Let it bubble gently while you resist the temptation to dive in immediately.
Toss in Cheese and Pasta : Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy. Add your drained pasta and toss well to coat every strand with that dreamy sauce.
Finish with Fresh Parsley : Remove from heat and fold in chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while it’s still warm—your taste buds are waiting!
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta (30-Minute Dinner!) is more than just food; it’s an experience filled with flavor, laughter, and unforgettable memories around the dinner table. Enjoy every creamy bite!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is a weeknight hero, offering rich flavors and quick prep
- The aroma of garlic filling your kitchen can make anyone hungry, while the creamy texture hugs every noodle perfectly
- Great for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then boil the pasta while preparing your creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time and maximizes flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spaghetti for penne or add spinach for a burst of color and nutrition. Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that elevates the dish beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the creamy sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
- Avoid overcooking pasta; al dente is best for texture
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency!
The first time I made this recipe, my friend declared it “life-changing” after just one bite! Now, it’s a staple at our dinner parties and always leaves everyone wanting more.
FAQ
Can I make this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and check other ingredient labels for gluten content.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option without losing creaminess.
How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?
Ensure your chicken is cooked just right; avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate 30-minute dinner that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious creamy garlic sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, offering a warm, comforting hug in every bite. Gather your loved ones around the table as this recipe turns ordinary evenings into memorable culinary moments.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop garlic and parsley.
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic and cream: Stir in minced garlic for about a minute, then pour in heavy cream and let bubble gently.
- Toss in cheese and pasta: Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted, then add drained pasta and toss well to coat.
- Finish with parsley: Remove from heat, fold in chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 2 cups)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap fettuccine for your favorite pasta type or add spinach for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of cream.
