Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated dish, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is the answer you didn’t know you were searching for. This one-pan meal beautifully combines tender, herb-seasoned chicken with creamy pasta, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for busy young professionals.
Why choose homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta?
Choosing to whip up this recipe in your own kitchen comes with multiple advantages. First, you'll have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality. For instance, using freshly grated parmesan can dramatically elevate the dish's creamy texture and flavor profile, offering you a far superior taste compared to pre-packaged options.
Moreover, homemade meals are often more economical, allowing you to savor a delicious, restaurant-quality experience without breaking the bank. The intuitive preparation lets you multitask, making it a practical option for those bustling evenings when time is limited. You can learn more about the health benefits of meal prepping on Healthline.
In less than 30 minutes, you’ll create an enticing plate that’s not only delicious but also satisfying. Grab your apron, turn on some tunes, and let’s get cooking! With each bite, you'll relish in the complex flavors, confirming that making dinner at home can indeed be a delightful experience.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Essential ingredients for the chicken
To create a succulent and flavorful chicken for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you'll need just a few essential ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: Slicing or butterflying the chicken helps it cook evenly.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil: This ensures your chicken gets that perfect sear.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth and richness.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: For a subtle kick and a beautiful color.
- Salt & pepper: These basic seasonings help bring all the flavors together.
Essential ingredients for the pasta
The pasta is just as important for making a delicious dish, and here's what you'll need:
- 8 oz dry penne pasta: You can opt for regular, gluten-free, or protein pasta!
- 2 cups chicken broth: This base imparts savory flavors as the pasta cooks.
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese will melt beautifully, enhancing your dish.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds a rich creaminess you won’t want to miss.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and ½ jumbo yellow onion: The combination gives a lovely, aromatically rich flavor to the dish.
- 4-6 large cloves garlic: Must-have for that signature garlic taste that pairs perfectly with parmesan.
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley: This brightens and freshens the entire dish.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to impress your taste buds with a satisfying meal!
Step-by-step preparation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Cooking dinner can be a delightful experience when you have a fun recipe at hand, and Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just for yourself, this dish is satisfying, creamy, and full of flavor. Let’s get started with a step-by-step guide to making this delicious meal!
Season the chicken
First things first, let’s season that chicken! In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. After patting the boneless, skinless chicken breast dry, rub the seasoning mixture generously over both sides. This step is crucial, as it helps lock in flavor and moisture during cooking—no bland bites here!
Cook the chicken
Now that your chicken is perfectly seasoned, it’s time to cook it. Grab a large pan and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add in avocado oil (or olive oil, if you prefer). Place your chicken in the pan and cook it for about 3-5 minutes on each side. You want that internal temperature to reach 165°F. Once it’s cooked through, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. This will allow the juices to redistribute and keep the chicken tender.
Sauté the onions and garlic
With the chicken resting, it’s time to build the base of our sauce! Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a little more oil along with unsalted butter to the same pan. Toss in the diced yellow onion and season with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften. Add in the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute. You’ll want to keep an eye on this to avoid burning the garlic—it should be fragrant and lightly golden.
Cook the pasta
Now comes the fun part—getting that pasta ready! Carefully deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all those tasty brown bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the broth to a light boil, then toss in dry penne pasta, ensuring it’s submerged. Cover the pan and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally. You’re aiming for the pasta to be al dente, giving it just the right texture to hold up against the creamy sauce.
Combine ingredients and finish the dish
Once your pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time to make this dish truly shine! Turn off the heat and stir in finely grated parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Mix it until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. Add back the sliced chicken, tossing everything together to coat it nicely. Now, serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta warm and enjoy a truly comforting dish that’s sure to impress!
This dish not only tastes great but is also quick to whip up on a busy weeknight. Remember, the key to a deliciously creamy sauce is grading your parmesan cheese fresh—your taste buds will thank you!
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Adding vegetables for extra nutrition
Enhance your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta by tossing in vibrant veggies! Broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes add color and nutrients. Simply sauté them alongside the onions for a delicious twist. Did you know adding vegetables can boost your meal's fiber content? According to the USDA, increasing your vegetable intake can significantly improve your overall health.
Swapping out chicken for seafood or plant-based proteins
Want a different protein? Experiment with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Alternatively, consider plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Not only are these options delicious, but they can also provide different nutritional benefits, like omega-3 fatty acids from seafood or plant-based protein fiber from legumes. The possibilities are endless, making mealtimes exciting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Importance of Using Freshly Grated Parmesan
When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, freshly grated parmesan is a game changer! Store-bought cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own ensures a creamy, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Use the smallest holes on your grater for the finest texture, which helps avoid clumping. Trust me, it elevates the entire dish!
Adjusting for Gluten-Free or High-Protein Pasta
Don’t worry if you’re opting for gluten-free or high-protein pasta! Both options can be used in this recipe with minor adjustments. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as these alternatives may cook faster or slower than regular penne. Following package instructions will help you achieve the perfect al dente pasta for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Explore different brands for the best results!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
What to pair with this dish for a complete meal
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, consider adding a fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the creamy flavors. A garlic bread loaf can be an excellent addition to soak up any leftover sauce, while steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans provide a splash of color and nutrients. You might also think about serving it alongside a simple yet refreshing drink, like sparkling water infused with lemon or mint.
Creative presentation ideas for serving
Presentation can make a world of difference! Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in deep, colorful bowls to create a cozy atmosphere. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan for that restaurant-like flair. For a fun twist, consider layering the pasta in a mason jar to create a lovely, portable meal for lunch. You can even use wooden skewers to hold slices of chicken on top for a whimsical touch that’ll impress your guests!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready is a breeze for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish. You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep the chicken and vegetables.
Cooking Time
Once you're set to go, the cooking will take approximately 25 minutes. This includes perfectly sautéing the chicken and creating that creamy garlic sauce for the pasta.
Total Time
In just about 35 minutes, you can have a delicious homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta ready to serve! This makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When preparing a delicious dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you're likely wondering about its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: Each serving packs approximately 665 calories, making it a filling meal.
- Protein: With about 41 grams of protein, this dish is great for muscle repair and satiety.
- Sodium: Keep in mind it contains around 1021 mg of sodium, so be mindful if you're watching your salt intake.
This delightful recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides vital nutrients to keep you energized! For more detailed information on the nutritional aspects of chicken and pasta, you can check out resources from the USDA.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep several components of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in advance. Cook the chicken and pasta earlier in the day, then store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything together, adding extra cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth.
What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian option?
If you prefer a vegetarian delight, consider replacing the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or mushrooms. These substitutes maintain a great texture while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce. For a heartier option, you can use plant-based chicken alternatives, available at many grocery stores.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
For a lighter take on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, try using whole grain or vegetable-based pasta options. Substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as Greek yogurt or unsweetened almond milk. Additionally, using less cheese or opting for a low-fat version can further reduce calorie counts without sacrificing flavor!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
In summary, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is not only a delicious comfort food option but also a quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this recipe brings joy and satisfaction to the table. Give it a try and savor every bite!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Equipment
- large pan
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½" thickness
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta normal, gluten free or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese *
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper. Pat the chicken dry and then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat. Once hot, add avocado oil. Then, add seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add more avocado oil and butter. Then, add onion and season it with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until beginning to get tender and translucent. Add garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to come to a light boil. Then, add the dry pasta and stir to make sure that the pasta is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al-dente.
- Turn off the heat and add in the parmesan, heavy cream and parsley. Stir until the parmesan is melted and the sauce is warm and thickened slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it into the pan along with the pasta. Toss to combine. Then, serve & enjoy!
Leave a Reply