Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
When it comes to meal options, why settle for fast food when you can whip up something delightful at home like garlic parmesan pasta with chicken? Homemade dishes not only allow you to control what goes into your ingredients, but they also encourage creativity in the kitchen. Plus, preparing your own meals can be a fun and rewarding experience that enhances your culinary skills.
Fast food may be convenient, but it's often packed with preservatives and unhealthy fats. By choosing homemade pasta dishes, you can substitute healthy ingredients and tailor flavors to your liking. According to the American Heart Association, home-cooked meals are often more nutritious, helping you maintain a balanced diet.
Cooking at home also represents a fantastic opportunity to explore various cuisines. This garlic parmesan pasta is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a comforting dish. Not only is it delicious, but it can also be made in about 40 minutes total with minimal prep. So gather your ingredients and let's dive into making this satisfying weeknight meal!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Essential Ingredients for the Dish
To create this delightful garlic parmesan pasta with chicken, you'll need a handful of key ingredients that combine to form a rich and satisfying meal:
- Chicken Breasts - Opt for one or two, depending on your appetite.
- Olive Oil - Essential for sautéing and adding flavor.
- Dried Pasta - Spaghetti or fettuccine work wonders here.
- Garlic - Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor.
- Butter - This is what makes your sauce luxuriously silky.
- Parmesan Cheese - Use freshly grated for best results, ensuring it melts beautifully.
- Black Pepper - Adds a hint of warmth, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Parsley - A fresh touch to finish, though optional.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
Elevate your dish with these delightful extras:
- Pasta Cooking Water - Don't forget to save some for adjusting the sauce’s consistency.
- Red Pepper Flakes - For a kick of heat.
- Lemon Zest - A dash can brighten the flavor profile beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs - Basil or thyme can introduce a delightful complexity.
These optional ingredients can personalize your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken to match your taste and mood. Feel free to experiment! For more tips on maximizing flavors, check out resources like Bon Appétit.
Step-by-step Preparation of Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Cooking a delightful plate of garlic parmesan pasta with chicken at home is easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the process step-by-step, making your cooking experience as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 - 2 chicken breasts or thighs
- 200 grams of dried pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine work best)
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Garlic
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
Make sure to leverage quality ingredients – they truly make a difference! For instance, using fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded will ensure a creamy, rich sauce. If you're looking for pantry staples, check out this guide on pasta types for more culinary tips.
Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta of your choice. To ensure perfect texture, cook the pasta for one minute less than the package instructions. Whether using fresh or dried pasta, remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is key to binding your sauce beautifully!
Prepare the Chicken Breast or Thighs
While your pasta cooks, let’s turn our attention to the chicken. To ensure even cooking and a delightful presentation, flatten your chicken breasts to about 1-1.5 cm thick. You can do this using a rolling pin over plastic wrap – it’s messy but effective!
Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, then dust it lightly with flour. This not only adds flavor but helps create a nice, golden-brown crust when you fry it. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about two minutes on each side. If your chicken is thicker, increase the cooking time. Once done, wrap it in foil to rest.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Now, let’s craft that flavorful sauce! In a large skillet, combine olive oil and sliced garlic over medium heat. It may feel strange to start cooking the garlic in a cold skillet, but trust me; this method allows the oil to absorb that aromatic garlic flavor beautifully.
Once the garlic is fragrant, add your reserved pasta water along with butter cubes one at a time, whisking to create an emulsified sauce. Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan and black pepper for that irresistible cheesy finish. For extra flavor, you might consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest!
Combine Everything Beautifully
With the pasta cooked and the garlic parmesan sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Toss the pasta into the skillet with the sauce and mix well with tongs. Add chopped parsley, and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
Slice your rested chicken and serve it atop the pasta. Drizzle with a touch of extra olive oil if you like, then dig in and enjoy your delicious garlic parmesan pasta with chicken! For a visual guide, check out a helpful pasta preparation video.
Cooking becomes effortless when you know the steps! By following these simple guidelines, you’re all set to whip up a comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s bound to impress. Happy cooking!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Shrimp
Switch things up by transforming your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken into a delightful shrimp dish! Simply replace the chicken with 200 grams of large shrimp—sautéed with a hint of lemon for brightness. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and just curl to ensure they’re tender and juicy. The rich, buttery sauce will cling beautifully to the shrimp, marrying perfectly with the al dente pasta. Looking for a fresh twist? Add some freshly chopped basil or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Garlic Parmesan Vegetarian Pasta
For a meat-free alternative, try a garlic parmesan vegetarian pasta! Opt for a medley of your favorite vegetables, like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté them until they’re vibrant and tender, then toss them with the same buttery garlic sauce used in the original recipe. You won’t miss the meat; this dish is packed with flavors and nutrients! Consider adding toasted pine nuts for added crunch, or top with sliced olives for a briny finish. Explore more veggie options at EatingWell, and get creative with your personal touches!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Perfecting the Chicken Doneness
For the garlic parmesan pasta with chicken, achieving the perfect chicken doneness is crucial. You want the chicken to be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked on the inside. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you're working with thicker cuts, consider butterflying or cutting them into smaller pieces for faster, more even cooking. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture!
Grating Your Own Parmesan Cheese
One simple tip to elevate your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken is to grate your own parmesan cheese. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, preventing it from melting smoothly. A microplane or box grater works wonders for achieving finely grated cheese that incorporates beautifully into your sauce. Plus, it tastes fresher! For more on the benefits of freshly grated cheese, check this article.
Enjoy crafting your delicious pasta dish with these handy tips!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Ideal Side Dishes
When enjoying your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken, consider pairing it with simple yet flavorful side dishes to elevate your meal experience. A fresh, crisp salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish. You might also enjoy roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, which offer a lovely balance to the creaminess. For something heartier, garlic bread or steamed broccoli would be delightful options. Each of these sides enhances the overall dining experience, bringing a delightful variety of textures and flavors to your table.
Garnishing Your Dish for Presentation
Presentation can truly make a meal shine! For your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top just before serving; it adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also toss in some extra grated parmesan cheese for that extra touch of indulgence. To create an artful display, use tongs to twirl the pasta into a nest shape before adding the chicken on top. Serving your pasta in a warm bowl will keep it cozy while making it visually appealing. A little effort in presentation goes a long way in delighting your guests!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Preparation Time
Preparing your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken takes just 10 minutes. This is the perfect time to gather your ingredients, chop your garlic, and season the chicken. A little prep goes a long way in making your cooking experience seamless!
Cooking Time
For cooking, you’ll need about 30 minutes. This includes frying the chicken until it’s golden and tender, and whipping up a delectable garlic-infused sauce. The key is balancing the pasta cooking with your sauce prep for maximum flavor.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an ideal dish for a busy weeknight, delivering comfort and richness without demanding too much of your time. You’ll enjoy this delightful meal in no time!
To learn more about the importance of timing in your cooking, check out Cooking Timings Made Easy for helpful tips and tricks!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Calories
This Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken serves two and contains approximately 650 calories per serving. This makes it a satisfying yet balanced option for a weeknight meal, perfect for energy without feeling overly heavy.
Protein
Each serving packs around 45 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken. This high protein content helps support muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer, making it an excellent choice post-workout.
Sodium
With roughly 650 mg of sodium per serving, this dish is moderate in salt content. To keep sodium levels in check, consider using low-sodium chicken broth instead of traditional salt during cooking.
For more detailed nutrition advice, you can refer to Healthline or Nutrition.gov. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
Can I make this pasta dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic parmesan pasta with chicken ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and pasta, and combine them with the sauce. When you're ready to eat, just reheat the dish in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen up the sauce. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives due to dietary restrictions or personal preference, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Other options include pecorino Romano or a briskly aged Gruyère. Remember, freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged, so always opt for fresh when possible.
How can I adjust the recipe for more servings?
To scale up your garlic parmesan pasta with chicken, simply increase the quantity of each ingredient proportionately. For every doubling of the recipe, consider using additional pan space or cooking in batches to achieve that coveted golden chicken crust. This method not only ensures even cooking, but also maintains that delicious flavor profile!
If you're curious to learn more about pasta variations, check out this pasta guide for inspiration!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Chicken
In conclusion, this garlic parmesan pasta with chicken dish offers a simple yet flavorful option for busy weeknights. The rich, buttery sauce combined with tender chicken makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Serve hot, and enjoy the cozy, satisfying goodness! For more varied chicken recipes, check out Foodnetwork or BBC Good Food.
Garlic parmesan pasta with chicken (no cream)
Equipment
- fry pan
- skillet
- rolling pin
- Tongs
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 1 - 2 chicken breasts or thighs Use good quality free range chicken.
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For frying chicken.
- 200 grams dried pasta Spaghetti or fettuccine work best. Use 300 grams for fresh pasta.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic Finely sliced.
- 0.5 cup white wine Sauvignon blanc is recommended.
- 70 grams cold butter Cut into four cubes.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 60 grams parmesan Very finely grated.
- 0.5 cup flat leaf parsley Finely chopped.
- salt To taste.
Instructions
- Cook your pasta in well salted boiling water, I usually undercook by 1 min from package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Flatten the chicken breast to an even thickness (about 1-1.5cm) by laying some plastic wrap over the top and hitting with a rolling pin.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper on each side then dust with the flour.
- Heat the olive oil in a fry pan over medium high heat and fry the chicken for 2 mins each side (or until cooked through if it's thicker).
- Put the tablespoon of olive oil in a cold skillet and add the sliced garlic.
- Bring to a gentle sizzle over medium heat and cook for about 30 seconds, moving it around so it doesn't brown.
- Lower the heat slightly and add the wine, then cook for about 4 mins until gently simmering and reduced roughly by half.
- Add the butter pieces, one at a time, letting each piece melt and whisking well between each addition.
- Add a ¼ cup reserved pasta water and whisk vigorously to create an emulsified sauce.
- Add the black pepper and mix through.
- Add the cooked pasta straight in and toss with the sauce using tongs. Arrange in a level layer.
- Sprinkle the parmesan over the top, leave until melting, about 1 min, then toss until glossy.
- Taste for seasoning and add salt if needed. Add parsley and mix through.
- Serve straight away, top with sliced chicken and some extra parmesan.
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