INTRODUCTION
Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a dish that blends rich flavors and creamy textures. It is a comfort meal that warms the heart and fills the stomach. This recipe brings together juicy chicken, flavorful garlic, and creamy Parmesan sauce, all tossed with pasta. If you’re looking for a dish that is both simple and satisfying, you have found it.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
One of the main reasons people love Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is its blending of tastes. The garlic flavor adds a punch to the creamy sauce, making every bite delightful. The chicken not only adds protein but also absorbs all the tasty flavors of the butter and garlic. The pasta acts as a perfect base that brings the whole dish together.
Another reason you will love this recipe is its ease of preparation. You can make it in a short time, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy date night. The ingredients are easy to find, making it accessible for anyone. Plus, it is family-friendly, making it a great choice for dinner with loved ones.
HOW TO MAKE Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you will need:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet to cook the chicken and sauce
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chopping chicken and garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 450 g chicken breast, cut into 2 cm cubes
- 225 g penne or rotini pasta
- 60 g unsalted butter
- 240 ml heavy cream
- 100 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn for garnish
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Boil pasta in a large pot of generously salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, which takes around 6-8 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer on low heat while stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and properly coats the chicken. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Mix everything well until the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with torn fresh basil leaves.
HOW TO SERVE Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta
When serving Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta, you can pile it high on a plate. Make sure to let some of the creamy sauce drizzle down to give it a tasty finish. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the flavor even more. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad or a slice of garlic bread to complete the meal.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The pasta will stay fresh for about 3 days. When reheating, it is best to do so gently on low heat with a splash of water or extra cream to keep the sauce smooth.
If you want to freeze this meal, it is possible, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and store them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Always make sure to reheat thoroughly before eating.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
For a balanced meal, you might want to serve Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta with some sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add freshness.
- Garlic bread is a classic choice and goes well with a creamy pasta dish.
- Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, can provide color and nutrition.
VARIATIONS
You can tweak this recipe to fit your taste. Here are some fun variations:
- Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for added nutrition.
- For a bit of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- You could replace the chicken with shrimp or even use cooked sausage for a different flavor.
- If you love mushrooms, adding sautéed mushrooms can boost the flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use any kind of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken as a quicker option. Just make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just replace the pasta with a gluten-free variety, and you’re all set.
Q3: What can I use instead of heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or cashew cream for a lighter version, but the sauce will not be as rich.
Q4: How can I make it healthier?
A: You can use whole wheat pasta and add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta
To save time, you can do some prep work before cooking. You can cut chicken and mince garlic ahead of time and store them in the fridge. You can also cook the pasta a few hours in advance and store it separately. Just make sure to toss the pasta with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking. This way, when it’s time to make dinner, you can quickly put everything together.
Making Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal. Once you try it, you might want to make it again and again!
Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Boil pasta in a large pot of generously salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, which takes around 6-8 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer on low heat while stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and properly coats the chicken. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Mix everything well until the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with torn fresh basil leaves.