This Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, making it a top choice for weeknight dinners. Featuring simple ingredients like chicken breasts, pasta, cream, and Parmesan, this dish is both delicious and versatile. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy schedules. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein for endless variations. Perfect with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad, this creamy pasta is a go-to meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and flour, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to form a roux.
- Add Liquid Ingredients:
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture bubble gently for about a minute.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for 4–5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Reduce the heat if the sauce starts bubbling excessively.
- Incorporate Parmesan:
- Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly ground pepper if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Rich and Creamy: The luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A comforting meal that everyone at the table will appreciate.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different types of pasta, protein, or veggies.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Properly: Avoid overcooking the pasta to ensure it holds up well when combined with the sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency.
- Grate Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated Parmesan.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to achieve a golden crust.
Variations and Substitutions
- Pasta Options: Use fettuccine, penne, or linguine for a different texture.
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
- Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and a vegan Parmesan substitute.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be added directly to the sauce to save time.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and store it separately. Combine and heat just before serving.
Serving and Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Bread Pairing: Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Complement the dish with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Garnishes: Add fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Easy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
4
servings10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
For the Pasta:
8 ounces uncooked pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce Base:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and flour, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to form a roux.
- Add Liquid Ingredients:
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture bubble gently for about a minute.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for 4–5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Reduce the heat if the sauce starts bubbling excessively.
- Incorporate Parmesan:
- Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly ground pepper if desired.
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