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Recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Introduction:
There’s something magical about the combination of creamy, garlicky, cheesy goodness mixed with tender pasta and succulent chicken. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has become a crowd favorite at dinner parties, and it’s just as enjoyable when you make it for a cozy night at home. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 10 minutes of hands-on time, but the result is nothing short of delicious.
With its rich flavors, comforting texture, and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a weeknight indulgence, this creamy chicken pasta hits the spot.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups of pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti – your choice!)
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 tablespoon salt (for seasoning the water)
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water to add to the sauce later, if needed.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the cream to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, continuing to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken:
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and toss everything together. Let the dish simmer for another minute or two, just to ensure it’s all heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness.
- Serve immediately while it’s still warm and creamy.
History:
Creamy pasta dishes have long been a favorite in Italian-American cuisine, with the creamy sauce often made with butter, cream, and cheese – ingredients that became widely available in the United States. This recipe, with its rich and comforting flavors, is a nod to the decadent Alfredo-style pasta dishes that originated in Rome. Alfredo sauce, with its simple yet luxurious combination of butter and Parmesan, quickly became a favorite in the U.S. and has since evolved into a variety of creamy pasta creations like this one.
Though the addition of chicken isn’t traditional in Italian recipes, it’s an easy adaptation that makes this dish more filling, while still maintaining its indulgent flavor profile.
Formation of the Dish:
The creation of creamy pasta dishes, especially those featuring chicken, emerged from the growing availability of dairy products and pasta in post-war America. As people sought to create meals that were both rich in flavor and easy to prepare, the combination of cream, cheese, and pasta became a hallmark of comfort food.
This recipe incorporates the rich foundation of the classic Alfredo-style sauce but adds a touch of garlic for extra depth of flavor, and the addition of chicken brings protein and heartiness to make it a well-rounded dish.
Conclusion:
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an unforgettable dish that will quickly earn its place as a family favorite. It’s a perfect balance of flavors—rich, garlicky, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish will always impress.
Lovers of this dish will appreciate how quick and easy it is to make, while still delivering a restaurant-quality meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and comforting. It’s the kind of meal everyone will ask for again and again.
This recipe offers versatility: You can swap in different pasta types, add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or even make it a lighter version by using half-and-half instead of cream. However you choose to make it, it’s bound to be a hit at your table.
I hope you love making this dish as much as everyone loves eating it! Enjoy every creamy bite!