Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you're craving a comforting and delicious meal that's easy to prepare, our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Follow our detailed guide to make this delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish featuring succulent chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce. The sauce, made from heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, perfectly coats the pasta, making every bite incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, skinless
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Flour: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: to taste
• Black Pepper: to taste
• Pasta: 8 ounces, fettuccine or your preferred type
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped

Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of your favorite vegetables.
• Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk.
• Different Cheese: Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Gruyere for a unique twist.
• Additional Vegetables: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or peas to the dish for extra nutrients and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux.
4. Add Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Then add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the sauce begins to thicken.
5. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet, letting it simmer in the sauce until fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add fresh parsley and mix well.
9. Serve Immediately: Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

How to Cook Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing and Cooking the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a generous amount of salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them until they are golden brown on each side. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Creating the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. This will help thicken your sauce.

Step 3: Adding Broth and Cream

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the heavy cream. Continue to whisk until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 4: Melting the Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combining Chicken and Sauce

Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, allowing them to simmer in the creamy garlic sauce until they are fully cooked through and the sauce reaches your desired thickness.

Step 6: Cooking the Pasta

While the chicken and sauce are simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside.

Step 7: Bringing it All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it to ensure that every strand is coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Stir in fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Step 8: Serving Your Dish

Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley leaves for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked just until golden brown. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it and stir constantly until fragrant.
• Lumpy Sauce: Add the chicken broth gradually while whisking to avoid lumps.
• Skipping the Cheese: The Parmesan cheese not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the sauce. Don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Add a Lemon Wedge: A wedge of lemon on the side can be squeezed over the dish for a fresh, tangy twist.
• Pair with Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this creamy dish.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Serve the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta in large, shallow bowls to showcase the delicious, creamy sauce. Make sure to include pieces of chicken on top for an appealing presentation. You can also add a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

• Colorful Garnishes: Use finely chopped parsley, basil, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to add vibrant color.
• Artful Plating: Twirl the pasta into neat nests and place the chicken slices on top.
• Cheese Crust: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top and place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes to create a cheesy crust.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parsley, and quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
• Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. If the sauce is too thick, you can use this starchy water to thin it out slightly.
• Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken together, then add freshly cooked pasta.

Q: Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?

A: While you can freeze the chicken and sauce, it’s best to cook fresh pasta when ready to serve as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

Q: What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta?

A: This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Q: How can I make this dish healthier?

A: Use whole wheat pasta, substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk, and add more vegetables to the sauce.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken. Simply add it to the sauce and let it heat through before combining with the pasta.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy garlic sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions and variations. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Try it out, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love!

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