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Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is that comforting dish you can always count on for a quick weeknight dinner or easy meal prep for the days ahead. Creamy Parmesan sauce clings to perfectly cooked pasta and tender chicken, delivering serious flavor with minimal effort. It has become one of my go-to choices when I need to pull something special together fast yet still crave a homemade touch.
The first time I tested this, everyone went back for seconds before I could even plate myself. It has now become a family request for birthdays and even lazy Sundays.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: This brings richness and keeps the chicken juicy Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
- Chicken breast: A lean protein that stays tender with the perfect seasoning Look for quality cuts for juicier results
- Paprika: Gives the chicken a warm color and gentle smoky note Opt for smoked paprika if you want extra depth
- Oregano: Pairs beautifully with garlic and chicken Dry oregano works best here check your jar is fragrant not dusty
- Garlic powder: Intensifies the garlicky flavor without burning like fresh might Fresh garlic can be too sharp for this sauce
- Thyme: Adds an herbal note and rounds out the flavor profile Use dry thyme for its concentrated taste
- Black pepper: Just enough to give a mild kick Freshly cracked is ideal
- Salt: Boosts every ingredient and balances the sauce Fine sea salt dissolves evenly
- Gluten free farfalle pasta: Bows hold creamy sauce especially well Any short pasta can work but farfalle feels fun and fancy
- Butter: Builds the velvety sauce Use good quality unsalted so you control seasoning
- Dry shallots: These bring mild sweetness and depth If using fresh shallot mince it finely
- Italian seasoning: Lends a classic flavor backbone Make your own with oregano basil and thyme if you like
- Chicken broth: Adds savoriness and helps bring the sauce together Use low sodium to keep saltiness in check
- Gluten free flour: Thickens the sauce without a trace You can use regular all purpose if gluten is not a concern
- Heavy cream: Creates ultimate richness and silky texture Use fresh cream for the smoothest sauce
- Shredded Parmesan: Melts into creamy cheesy goodness Always pick Parmigiano Reggiano or real wedge Parmesan and shred it yourself for best melt
- Pasta water: Helps adjust sauce consistency Save at least half a cup before draining pasta
The real standout in this dish is the Parmesan cheese It brings so much flavor to the sauce I always make sure to grate it fresh When my niece first tried this pasta her eyes widened and she declared it the best dinner ever We still laugh about it
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil Generously salt the water then add farfalle pasta Stir often to prevent sticking and cook just until al dente This creates the ideal bite and will soak up the sauce later
- Mix and Season the Chicken:
- Combine paprika oregano garlic powder thyme salt and black pepper in a small bowl Pound chicken breasts lightly so they are even then coat both sides thoroughly with seasoning This ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy
- Sear and Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Once hot add chicken and sear five minutes per side until golden Flip the chicken lower the heat to medium low cover and cook ten to twelve minutes more until internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Remove chicken and set aside
- Build the Flavor Base:
- Add butter to the skillet and let it melt on low heat Drop in dry shallots garlic powder and Italian seasoning Stir and let them bloom for one minute Sautéing these builds flavor right into the pan
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Sprinkle flour into the skillet and mix it in well scraping up any browned bits Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking then add heavy cream Keep whisking until you have a smooth creamy base
- Melt in the Cheese:
- Add shredded Parmesan and stir gently as it melts The sauce will thicken and get irresistibly cheesy Keep stirring until it is silky and smooth
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta into the sauce Toss well so every piece is coated If sauce is too thick add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency
- Add and Serve the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breast and lay it over the pasta Gently fold together to mix Serve hot and enjoy the rich garlicky aroma
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Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days The sauce stays creamy and reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk
Freezing is possible but for best texture I recommend eating within a few days
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap chicken breast for thigh meat if you prefer extra juiciness Fresh garlic can be used in place of powder but sauté it gently to avoid burning Any short pasta works if you do not have farfalle Parmesan can be replaced with Asiago for a different cheesy note
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad makes the perfect side The pasta pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus Warm garlic bread is another favorite my family always requests to soak up extra sauce
Cultural Inspiration
Creamy garlic Parmesan sauces can be traced back to Italian American kitchens The style evolved for weeknight comfort in busy homes This recipe captures that spirit of fusion bringing classic flavors together in a way that just feels cozy and nostalgic
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I keep chicken moist during cooking?
Pound the chicken to even thickness, cook until it reaches 165°F, and let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
- → What's the best type of pasta for this dish?
Farfalle is recommended, but penne, rotini, or fusilli can be substituted for similar flavor and sauce coverage.
- → How do I avoid a lumpy sauce?
Whisk flour thoroughly with melted butter and gradually add cream while stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- → Can I make this meal gluten free?
Yes, use gluten free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
- → How do I adjust the sauce consistency?
Add reserved pasta water gradually to thin the sauce until it coats the pasta evenly without being runny.
- → What vegetables pair well in this dish?
Spinach, broccoli florets, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added for color and extra flavor.