Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta
If you’re on the lookout for a comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this irresistible Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a rich, garlicky sauce that’s not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into making this scrumptious dish!
Top Reasons to Make Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings creates a sauce that is rich and full of flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food: Creamy pasta dishes are the ultimate comfort food, sure to please everyone at the table.
- Versatile: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep.
Your Shopping Guide
- 2 medium chicken breasts (approx. 20 ounces)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Olive oil for drizzling
- 16 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half (or milk whisked with 1 tablespoon cornstarch)
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon (powder, crushed cubes, or base)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 1/2 cups (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, packed (use micro grater)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Hardware & Gadgets
- Large Pot: For cooking pasta.
- Skillet: A large skillet will help you make the sauce and cook the chicken.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Microplane Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and combining ingredients.
- Chef’s Knife: For chopping shallots and mincing garlic.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings stick better. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Create the Base
Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Next, add the half and half (or your alternative) and chicken bouillon, followed by the dried parsley, basil, oregano, additional salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Slice the seared chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
- Warm Weather: Add in fresh vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a light, refreshing twist.
- Cool Weather: Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for added depth and warmth.
- Seasonal Additions: In fall, incorporate roasted butternut squash for a seasonal flair.
- Herb Variations: Try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Chef’s Notes
- For an extra kick, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a different protein option.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken to speed up the process.
- Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
This Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta can easily be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the sauce and cook the pasta, then combine them when you’re ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta works beautifully in this recipe, feel free to swap it out for your favorite pasta shape, such as fusilli, rotini, or even spaghetti.
What can I use instead of half and half?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use milk whisked with cornstarch, or for a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream or evaporated milk mixed with cornstarch.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta. Just be aware that the pasta may become slightly softer when thawed. It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta if possible.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for depth of flavor.
Before You Go
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings stick better. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the shallot and garlic mixture, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Next, add the half and half (or your alternative) and chicken bouillon, followed by the dried parsley, basil, oregano, additional salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Slice the seared chicken breasts and place them on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
- Serve your Parmesan Garlic Chicken with Pasta immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For an extra kick, consider increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a different protein option.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken to speed up the process.
