Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please.
A Personal Story Behind My Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Journey
I remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for something new to make for dinner. As I gathered the ingredients, the familiar aromas of garlic and parmesan filled my kitchen, instantly making me feel at home. Cooking this dish has become a cherished tradition in my family, often bringing us together around the table to enjoy delicious food and great conversations.
What Makes This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it perfectly balances flavors and textures. The succulent chicken, seasoned to perfection, pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, enriched with parmesan and garlic. Additionally, the dish is versatile; you can easily modify it to suit your dietary needs, using gluten-free pasta or adding your favorite vegetables. It’s a wonderful way to make a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The Full Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, butterflied or pounded to about ½” thickness
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken dry and rub both sides with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the avocado oil, then cook the seasoned chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest. Remember, letting the chicken rest helps keep it juicy!
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add more avocado oil and butter to the pan. Sauté the diced onion with a pinch of salt for about 3 minutes until it starts to become tender. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth lightly boil, then add the dry pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking it.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the parmesan, heavy cream, and parsley until the parmesan melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for the perfect seasoning.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the pan with the pasta. Toss to combine everything well. Serve and enjoy your delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
This dish is fantastic on its own, but feel free to get creative! You can add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients and color. For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to round out your meal. For added flavor, consider topping with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta based on your preference.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta separately and combine them just before serving for the best texture.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 4
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pan For cooking chicken and pasta.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or pounded to about ½ inch thickness
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken dry and rub both sides with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the avocado oil, then cook the seasoned chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest. Remember, letting the chicken rest helps keep it juicy!
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add more avocado oil and butter to the pan. Sauté the diced onion with a pinch of salt for about 3 minutes until it starts to become tender. Add the minced garlic, stir, and cook for an additional minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth lightly boil, then add the dry pasta, ensuring it is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking it.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in the parmesan, heavy cream, and parsley until the parmesan melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste for the perfect seasoning.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it to the pan with the pasta. Toss to combine everything well. Serve and enjoy your delicious meal!