Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Penne pasta tossed in a decadent cream sauce is a family favorite, especially when topped with crispy Parmesan chicken. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that appeals to both adults and kids, making it great for family meals.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day; the flavors only get better!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly so that it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating that crispy crust while also preparing the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into thin cutlets)
• 1/3 cup Italian style bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more as needed)

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 16 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• chopped parsley

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix together the Italian bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Coat each chicken cutlet with olive oil, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add pressed garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Sprinkle flour over melted butter; stir for about 1 minute until combined.
4. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper; mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce; toss to coat evenly.
2. Slice the crispy chicken cutlets and place them on top of the pasta before serving.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its delicious flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta well.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with croutons and Caesar dressing adds a nice crunch and tang to your meal.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Additional Grated Parmesan: Sprinkling more grated Parmesan on top before serving brings out the cheesy flavor even more.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Broil the dish for a few minutes after adding mozzarella for a gooey, melty topping.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks can serve as a great utensil for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil provides a fragrant touch that complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results when making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Let Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest briefly before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour while whisking.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutritional value and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy contrast to the creamy pasta while adding vibrant color.
3. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made from tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provides brightness and acidity.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that balances out the savory flavors.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer unique flavors and presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken or pasta well can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ingredients with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Not using enough garlic: Garlic is key in this recipe. Be generous with it and consider adding more if you love its flavor!
• Using low-quality chicken: Inferior chicken can affect the dish’s overall taste. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best results.
• Neglecting the cream sauce: If you rush making the cream sauce, it may separate. Cook it slowly over medium heat for a smooth consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy dish made with penne pasta, flavorful garlic, Parmesan cheese, and crispy chicken. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

Can I customize my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition or swap out the chicken for turkey or beef based on preference.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour while it’s cooking. This will help achieve that creamy texture you desire.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Feel free to replace traditional penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables or changing up proteins. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet quick to prepare. Give this recipe a try and delight your family with its rich flavors!