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This garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is the definition of comfort food and a recipe my family asks for after just about every busy school day. The combination of juicy chicken bites tossed in a creamy cheesy sauce with touches of garlic and a little spice makes every bite irresistible. Simple to prepare with pantry staples and ready in under forty-five minutes you will want to add this one to your dinner rotation too.
The first time I made this I barely had time to cook before company arrived. It turned out so creamy and garlicky everyone asked for seconds. Now it is my go-to easy comfort dinner when I want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: give you juicy tender bites of chicken aim for fresh or thawed high-quality meat
- Garlic powder: boosts chicken flavor pairs with fresh garlic for a two-level effect
- Salt: brings out all the flavors so use a fine kosher or sea salt for best results
- Black pepper: adds warmth and depth
- Olive oil: helps sear and keep chicken moist opt for extra virgin for best taste
- Penne pasta: holds sauce well and provides a toothsome bite use quality wheat pasta for texture
- Low-sodium chicken broth: deglazes your pan and infuses savory notes choose a clear flavorful brand
- Butter: adds richness to the sauce and helps the garlic bloom
- Large garlic cloves: not only add robust aroma but also soft sweetness try to use fresh for fullest flavor
- Italian seasoning: brings herbal notes look for a blend with strong oregano basil and thyme presence
- Parmesan cheese: makes the sauce cheesy and nutty freshly grated is an upgrade over pre-shredded
- Hot sauce: offers a tangy spicy kick optional but it lifts the whole dish
- Red pepper flakes: give more chili heat adjust to your taste
- Heavy cream: brings lusciousness and balances the boldness of the other ingredients
- Chopped fresh parsley: finishes the dish with a fresh herbal accent
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- In a large bowl toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with the garlic powder salt and black pepper to coat thoroughly. Let them sit while you prep the rest to let the seasoning meld.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Warm your olive oil in a roomy skillet over medium-high. Scatter in the seasoned chicken spreading out for good contact. Sauté for six to eight minutes stirring occasionally until golden outside and no longer pink inside. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- Boil the Pasta:
- While the chicken cooks get a big pot of salted water rolling at a boil. Tip in the penne and cook as the package says for that perfect al dente bite. Drain and keep aside.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- With the empty skillet back on medium add just a splash of chicken broth. Scrape up all those caramelized bits with a wooden spoon because that is pure flavor.
- Build the Sauce Base:
- Melt the butter in the skillet over medium and add your minced garlic. Let it cook gently one or two minutes until just fragrant you do not want brown garlic. Toss in Italian seasoning Parmesan hot sauce and red pepper flakes. Stir and let the cheese melt for a smooth mix.
- Finish the Cream Sauce:
- Slowly pour in the remaining chicken broth and the heavy cream. Stir gently and bring to a bare simmer. Let it cook three to five minutes so the sauce thickens a little but stays pourable.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta:
- Return your chicken and any juices back to the skillet. Stir well to coat in sauce then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together so every piece is glossy with sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter chopped fresh parsley over your creamy pasta. Sprinkle more red pepper flakes on top if you like it spicy. Serve hot immediately for the best texture.
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I always look forward to using fresh whole garlic in this dish because nothing compares to that rich sweetness it gives after melting into the butter. Once my little one even pitched in and sprinkled the cheese and we all agreed it tasted even better when made together.
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. This pasta keeps well for up to three days and reheats best in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra cream or broth. I do not recommend freezing because the sauce can separate.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the penne for rotini or rigatoni if that is what you have or even gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. Chicken thighs are a great substitute and stay extra juicy. No heavy cream on hand use half and half and reduce the butter just a bit.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or a simple plate of roasted broccoli. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished plate brightens the flavors. If you are entertaining serve it family-style right from the skillet for a cozy vibe.
The Story of Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Parmesan pasta is a beloved staple in American home kitchens and draws inspiration from classic Italian Alfredo but with a spicier more savory twist. The addition of red pepper flakes and hot sauce gives it personality and makes each family’s version a little different. For us it began as a fridge clean-out meal and quickly became a tradition for birthdays and Sunday suppers.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the sauce extra thick and creamy?
For a thicker sauce, add about 8 ounces of cream cheese in chunks along with the Parmesan and stir until melted and fully combined.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne works great, but feel free to substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine based on your preference or what's on hand.
- → Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
You can cook the seasoned chicken with the sauce ingredients (except the cream) in a crock pot for 4 hours on HIGH or 6 on LOW, adding cream and pasta at the end.
- → How spicy is the finished pasta?
The heat level depends on the amount of hot sauce and pepper flakes you add. Feel free to adjust them or omit for a milder result.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement these creamy, savory pasta flavors beautifully.