Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful Delight!

Indulge your taste buds with this delectable Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, savory Parmesan cheese, and velvety cream sauce, all tossed together with al dente pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavors and creamy texture.

Difficulty: Moderate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Yield: Approximately 6 cups
Calories: 450 calories per serving

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) linguine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 3/4 cup (75g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk
• Tongs

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
2. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water.
3. Add the linguine pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the hot skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
4. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, and whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook the flour.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to combine it with the flour mixture.
5. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream.
7. Whisk the cream into the sauce until smooth and well combined.
8. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
9. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. Add the cooked linguine pasta to the skillet with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
2. Toss the pasta gently with tongs to coat it evenly with the sauce.
3. Add the cooked chicken slices to the skillet and toss them with the pasta.
4. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Divide the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta among serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve immediately while it’s still hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Tips and Tricks:

1. To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of dried Italian herbs or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
2. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.
3. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or pasta cooking water to adjust the consistency.
4. Experiment with different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or penne, for a variation in texture.
5. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creaminess.

Nutritional Information:

Per Serving:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 2g

Final Thoughts:
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting and delicious meal. The tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese come together in a velvety cream sauce that coats every strand of al dente pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a flavorful dinner, this recipe is a winner. So grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness!

FAQ:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! While linguine works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne to suit your preference.

Q2: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce?
A2: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy.

Q3: How can I adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick?
A3: If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or pasta cooking water to adjust the consistency to your liking.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely! You can sauté or roast some vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms and add them to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q5: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A5: While it’s best to enjoy this dish immediately after preparing it, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything together.

Q6: How should I store leftovers?
A6: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creaminess.

Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the creamy sauce may separate and the texture of the pasta may change upon thawing and reheating.

Q8: Can I garnish the dish with something other than Parmesan cheese?
A8: Absolutely! If you prefer, you can garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried herbs like basil or oregano for added freshness and flavor.