Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! With tender chicken, a luscious garlic-infused sauce, and generous Parmesan cheese, it’s comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish will bring warmth to the table.

2 chicken breasts, diced
Salt & pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
8 oz pasta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
1 cup spinach, chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley

Directions:
1. Cook pasta per package. Drain.
2. Sauté chicken in olive oil with salt & pepper until golden.
3. Add garlic. Cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in cream & broth. Simmer.
5. Add cheese, mix till creamy.
6. Toss pasta, tomatoes, & spinach. Garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 650 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time.

1. Prep Ingredients: Dice chicken, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, chop spinach and parsley. Measure all liquids.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine and Finish: Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken, drained pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Toss everything until the spinach wilts and the sauce coats the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time.
6. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This rich pasta dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a complete meal, add a simple side of roasted asparagus or green beans.

How-to Summary

Cook pasta. Sauté seasoned chicken until golden. Sauté garlic, then simmer with cream and broth. Melt in Parmesan to create a creamy sauce. Toss sauce with pasta, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach until combined. Garnish and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half, but milk may cause the sauce to be thin and not as rich. For best results, stick with heavy cream.

How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

What pasta shape works best?
Short, sturdy shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well. Avoid long, thin pasta like angel hair.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients ahead, but it’s best served fresh. The sauce may thicken upon standing; simply reheat with a little extra liquid.

Is there a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or simply omit them. They add a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the garlic and Parmesan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant (30-60 seconds). Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter.
• Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate fresh Parmesan off the block.
• Adding Cheese to Boiling Liquid: Always reduce the heat to low before adding Parmesan to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.
• Skipping Pasta Water: Not reserving starchy pasta water is a missed opportunity. It’s the perfect tool to adjust sauce consistency at the end.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish, balancing gourmet flavor with straightforward preparation. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is sure to impress. Its versatility and rich, satisfying taste make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.