Introduction to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Are you a young professional craving a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe. This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fettuccine in a way that’s not only delicious but also quick and simple to prepare.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Young Professionals
In today’s fast-paced world, we often don’t have the luxury of time—but that shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor! With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 25 minutes, this recipe is designed for those busy weeknights when your schedule is packed, yet you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Not only does this dish offer a comforting blend of garlic and parmesan, it’s also flexible; you can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and frequently available, making grocery shopping easier.
Imagine coming home after a long day, whipping up this delightful pasta, and enjoying an Italian-inspired feast—without the restaurant price tag. Want more inspiration? Check out this guide on quick meals for busy professionals that can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Essential Ingredients for a Creamy Dish
To create a delicious creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe, you'll need a solid base of ingredients that bring richness and flavor. Start with:
- Chicken Breast (8 ounces): Tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- Fettuccine (1 lb): This pasta type pairs beautifully with creamy sauces.
- Nestle All-Purpose Cream (250 ml): For that luscious creaminess.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic adds a fragrant kick.
- Parmesan Cheese (0.25 cup, grated): Cheesy goodness essential for flavor and richness.
- Onion (1 small, minced): Adds depth to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): For extra flavor in your sauce.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
If you want to elevate your dish even further, consider these optional ingredients:
- Cream Cheese (2 ounces): For an even creamier texture.
- Paprika (2 ½ tablespoons): It brings warmth and color.
- Dried Oregano (0.5 teaspoon): This adds an aromatic touch.
- Ground Black Pepper (0.25 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat! For more cooking tips, check out this guide on garlic for its numerous health benefits and usage advice.
Step-by-step Preparation of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is easier than you might think! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to creating this delicious dish that will impress anyone at your dinner table.
Season the chicken
Start with 8 ounces of chicken breast. Take a mixing bowl and rub the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. To enhance the flavors, season it generously with 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 3 teaspoons of paprika. Let the chicken sit for about 10 minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to penetrate, making your chicken truly delectable.
Cook the fettuccine
While the chicken is resting, it’s time to bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and then toss in 1 pound of fettuccine. Cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before you drain it. This step is crucial as the starchy water can help thicken your sauce later, allowing it to cling beautifully to the pasta.
Prepare the chicken in the skillet
In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will have you yearning for that first bite! After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a minute before slicing.
Sauté the garlic and onion
Using the same skillet, without cleaning it (that’s where the flavor lies!), add 5 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until they're fragrant, then toss in 1 small minced onion. Keep sautéing until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Make the creamy sauce
Now comes the magic! Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in 2 teaspoons of dried oregano and 2 ½ tablespoons of tomato paste, simmering for about 30 seconds. Then, gradually stir in 250 ml of Nestle All-Purpose Cream, 2 ounces of cream cheese, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy; season with a pinch of ground black pepper for that extra kick.
Combine pasta and sauce
Add the drained fettuccine to your creamy sauce, tossing well to coat every strand. If the sauce is too thick, slowly incorporate reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Serve the dish
Slice the cooked chicken and elegantly arrange it on top of the pasta. For an appealing presentation, consider garnishing with more grated Parmesan or even some fresh parsley if you have it on hand. Now, dig in and enjoy your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Trust me, it’s a delight you’ll want to make again and again.
Feel free to explore variations—like adding vegetables if you want to boost your nutrition further. Check out more on cooking pasta here for tips on cooking fettuccine to perfection! Happy cooking!
Variations on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Add Seasonal Vegetables
Enhancing your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe with seasonal vegetables is a delightful way to infuse flavor and nutrition. Try adding fresh spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini for a pop of color and taste. Not only do they complement the creamy sauce beautifully, but they also provide essential vitamins and minerals. When you incorporate these veggies, you not only make the dish more vibrant, but you also create a more balanced meal that the whole family will love.
Substitute Proteins for Variety
If you're in the mood for something different, consider substituting proteins in your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe. Turkey bacon can add a smoky flavor without the heaviness, while chicken ham brings a nice, savory twist. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tofu or chickpeas for added protein without sacrificing taste. These suggestions make the dish versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table is happy and satisfied.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
To ensure your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is luxuriously smooth, gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce until you reach your desired consistency. The starches in this water help the sauce bind beautifully to the pasta. For an extra layer of richness, don't hesitate to use freshly grated Parmesan; it melts better and enhances flavor. And remember, keep the heat low when adding cream to prevent it from curdling.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to restore its creaminess, ensuring it stays delectable on day two! For more storage tips, consider checking out resources like FoodSafety.gov.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ideal Pairings with Sides and Beverages
To elevate your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe, consider pairing it with a vibrant green salad, featuring arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also complement the dish beautifully. For beverages, sparkling water infused with lemon or a refreshing iced tea will balance the rich creaminess.
Presentation Tips for Impressing Guests
To impress your guests, serve the pasta in elegant bowls where you can showcase the creamy sauce and sliced chicken on top. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. A warm breadstick on the side can provide the perfect finishing touch to your table setting.
These simple suggestions will make your meal not only delightful to eat but also a visual treat for your guests!
Time Breakdown for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation Time
Get started with a quick prep! You'll need about 15 minutes to season the chicken and boil the pasta.
Cooking Time
The cooking process is equally efficient, taking around 25 minutes to make a rich and creamy sauce, fry the chicken, and combine everything beautifully.
Total Time
In just 40 minutes, you can have a delicious plate of creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta ready to serve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
For more ideas on quick meals, check out this guide to easy pasta dishes.
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
When you're indulging in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s good to know what you’re savoring. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile per serving to help you make informed dining choices!
Calories per serving
Each serving contains approximately 949 calories, making it a hearty meal that can satisfy your hunger without leaving you feeling overstuffed.
Key macronutrients
This dish is not only delicious but also packs a punch with its macronutrient content:
- Carbohydrates: 91g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 50g
With these balanced macronutrients, this pasta dish provides the energy boost you need for your busy day, while the protein helps maintain muscle health and the fats contribute to satiety.
For more insights into healthy eating, check out this comprehensive guide on nutritional sciences!
FAQ about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To adapt the creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe for vegetarians, simply replace the chicken with your favorite protein like grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to maintain the delicious flavor while keeping it plant-based.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta can be easily done on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to a skillet over medium heat, and stir in the pasta. This helps restore the creaminess while ensuring it heats evenly. Remember, microwave reheating is an option too, but monitor the time to prevent it from drying out.
How can I adjust the spice levels?
If you're looking to customize the spice levels in your creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta, you can tweak the amount of paprika or black pepper used. For a milder flavor, simply reduce these spices. Alternatively, if you prefer some heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the dish!
Conclusion on Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
In summary, this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will impress everyone at your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare and satisfyingly delicious. Give it a try, and let the rich, creamy goodness elevate your pasta nights!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 ounces chicken breast
Cream and Cheese
- 250 ml Nestle All-Purpose Cream
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
Pasta
- 1 lb fettuccine
Broth and Seasonings
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2.5 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Oil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for seasoning
Vegetables
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion minced
Instructions
Preparation
- Rub chicken breast with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Let it rest for 10 minutes before cooking.
- Boil 1 quart of water with 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.
- Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the seasoned chicken for 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Using the same pan with the remaining oil, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add onion. Continue sautéing until soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in dried oregano and paprika, and cook for 30 seconds to release the flavors.
- Add Nestle All-Purpose Cream, tomato paste, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy. Season with ground black pepper.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss well to coat evenly. Add pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish.
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