Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta: A Comfort Food Delight

Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, let me introduce you to my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta! Trust me, this dish is a game-changer. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathed in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it was one of the first meals I mastered when I started cooking. I remember the first time I served it to my friends; the way they inhaled it and asked for seconds made my heart swell with pride! The best part? It comes together in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

With just a handful of simple ingredients — think garlic, buttery goodness, and that irresistible touch of parmesan — you’ll create something truly delicious. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta that’ll have everyone asking for your secret!

Ingredients

To make my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients. I promise this list is simple and straightforward, just like the dish itself!

• 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil: This is for cooking the chicken and adds a nice flavor. I prefer avocado oil for its high smoke point, but olive oil works just as well!
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Make sure it’s butterflied or pounded down to about ½” thickness for even cooking.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: This blend brings that classic Italian flavor to the dish. Feel free to make your own if you have the herbs on hand!
• ½ tsp paprika: Just a pinch to add a little warmth and color to the chicken.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning everything perfectly, don’t be shy!
• 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil: You’ll need a bit more for sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce — trust me, it makes a difference!
• ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup): Sweet and savory, the onion brings depth to the dish.
• 4-6 large cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It infuses the dish with incredible flavor, so don’t skimp on this.
• 8 oz dry penne pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. This is what cooks the pasta and adds flavor!
• 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best! It melts beautifully into the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley: For a pop of color and freshness when serving.

How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Preparing the Chicken

Let’s kick things off with the chicken! First, grab a small bowl and mix together your Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel — this helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice sear. Then, rub that seasoning all over both sides of the chicken. Now, heat a large pan over medium heat and add your avocado oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully add the chicken. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Once done, take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside to rest. This step is crucial for juicy chicken!

Cooking the Pasta

While the chicken rests, let’s move on to the pasta! In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and toss in a bit more avocado oil and the butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the diced onion and sprinkle it with a pinch of salt. Cook this for about 3 minutes until the onion is tender and translucent. Then, add in your minced garlic and cook for another minute — oh, the aroma is heavenly! Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a light boil. Carefully add your dry penne pasta, making sure it’s submerged in that flavorful broth. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al-dente. You want it to have a slight bite to it, trust me!

Creating the Sauce

Now for the magic! Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, it’s time to make that creamy sauce. Turn off the heat and stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Watch as the cheese melts into that broth, creating a luscious sauce! If it looks a bit thick, don’t worry — it’ll loosen up as you stir. Toss in your chopped parsley for a fresh kick and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This step is where you can really make it your own, so don’t be shy!

Combining Everything

Finally, slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back into the pan along with the pasta. Gently toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in that creamy garlic parmesan sauce. And just like that, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is ready to be served! Plate it up, maybe sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top, and enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 45 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining!
• Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and creamy goodness creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, offering that satisfying feeling we all crave after a long day.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in the same pan, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the pasta for something different; this recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your taste!

Tips for Success

Let’s make sure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta turns out absolutely perfect! First things first, when it comes to cheese, always opt for freshly grated parmesan. It melts so much better than the pre-packaged stuff, and you’ll get that creamy texture you’re after. Use the smallest holes on your grater to achieve that fine consistency.

Another pro tip: don’t skip the resting time for your chicken after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy. Also, when you’re cooking the pasta in the broth, give it a stir halfway through to prevent any sticking.

Lastly, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking, whether that means a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. Cooking should be fun and intuitive, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta! Each serving is estimated to contain about 600 calories, with 30g of fat and 35g of protein, making it a hearty meal. You’ll also get around 60g of carbohydrates, which is perfect for fueling your day. With only 2g of sugar and 800mg of sodium, it strikes a nice balance for a satisfying dinner. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices, but I promise it’s worth every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While I love using penne for its ability to hold onto that creamy garlic parmesan sauce, you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you enjoy. Fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti work beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different shapes may require slight adjustments to ensure they’re perfectly al-dente!

How can I make it healthier?

If you’re looking to lighten up this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, there are a few easy swaps! You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to boost the nutrition. Opt for skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor, or try reducing the amount of heavy cream by using half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. Every little change can make a difference while keeping the dish delicious!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Definitely! This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is perfect for meal prep. You can cook everything and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s ready when you are!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is super simple! Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it’s a good idea to label it with the date!

When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge if frozen. To reheat, you can warm it up gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of heavy cream to keep that creamy texture intact. Stir occasionally until everything is heated through, and you’re good to go! Enjoy every last bite!

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