Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Why choose homemade meals over fast food?
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s tempting to grab fast food when you’re short on time. However, choosing homemade meals like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta not only gives you control over ingredients but also allows for a more nutritious and satisfying experience. Research shows that preparing meals at home can lead to healthier eating habits and promote better overall wellness. Plus, who doesn’t love that cozy feeling of sitting down to a home-cooked meal?
The charm of simplicity in cooking
Cooking can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a one-pan method, this easy recipe is perfect for young professionals juggling a busy lifestyle. It captures the essence of comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a rich and creamy dish that feels indulgent yet achievable. The culinary joy of creating this dish is in the ease and versatility, making it a staple for any weeknight dinner. No culinary degree required!
For more meal inspiration and tips on cooking, check out resources like EatingWell or Serious Eats.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When crafting your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil: for cooking the chicken perfectly.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast: butterflied or brought to about ½" thickness for even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: a fragrant blend to infuse the chicken with flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: adds a mild smokiness.
- Salt & pepper: to taste, enhancing all the flavors.
For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil: used again for sautéing.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: for a rich and creamy base.
- ½ jumbo yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup): enhances flavor with natural sweetness.
- 4-6 large cloves garlic, minced: the star ingredient that brings the dish to life!
- 8 oz dry penne pasta: the perfect shape for holding onto that creamy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: the essential cooking liquid for the pasta.
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese: for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- ½ cup heavy cream: to create that irresistible rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley: for a fresh finish and a pop of color.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re just one pan away from a delicious dinner!
Step-by-step preparation for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is not just about tossing ingredients together; it’s an experience that combines flavor, technique, and a little bit of love. Let’s dive into each step, so you can whip up this delectable dish with confidence!
Season and prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken. In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat your boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with a paper towel; this helps the seasoning stick better. Rub both sides of the chicken with your seasoning mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. This simple step is crucial—it will elevate every bite of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta to restaurant-quality. Set the chicken aside while you get your pan ready.
Sear the chicken to perfection
Heat a large pan over medium heat and drizzle in some avocado oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place your seasoned chicken in the pan. Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest. This keeps it juicy for when you slice it later.
Sauté the onions and garlic
Now, let’s build that amazing flavor. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a tablespoon of avocado oil and a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the same pan. Toss in the diced jumbo yellow onion, seasoning it with a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. Next, add in your minced garlic and cook for another minute. The aromas will be heavenly! This step is often the unsung hero of pasta dishes, as the onion and garlic blend create a rich foundation for your sauce.
Cook the pasta in the flavorful broth
Time to bring it all together! Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any delicious browned bits. Bring the broth to a light boil, then add your dry penne pasta. Stir gently to ensure it’s submerged in the flavorful broth. Cover the pan and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. This is where the magic happens—the pasta absorbs all that incredible flavor!
Combine ingredients for a creamy finish
Once your pasta is cooked, it’s time for the pièce de résistance. Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of finely grated parmesan cheese, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Stir it until the cheese melts and the sauce warms up, creating that rich, creamy texture. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Slice your rested chicken, add it back to the pan, toss to combine, and there you have it—your delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Now, dig in and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Swap in Different Proteins
Looking to mix things up? You can easily swap the chicken for other proteins! Try using shrimp for a seafood twist or turkey bacon for a smoky flavor. Both pair wonderfully with the creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, even plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas can work beautifully in this dish, providing a satisfying texture and flavor.
Experiment with Vegetable Additions
Enhancing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta with fresh vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant flavors. Consider tossing in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for added color and crunch. For a bit of earthiness, sautéed mushrooms work wonders, too! Don’t hesitate to get creative—mix and match according to the season or whatever you have on hand. Your taste buds will thank you!
This flexibility keeps your meals exciting and allows you to customize your dinners based on your dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting!
Cooking Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When preparing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, here are a few tips to elevate your dish:
- Ingredient Prep: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready — it speeds up the cooking process and keeps your workspace organized.
- Fresh Parmesan: Always opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese. It melts beautifully, creating a luxurious sauce. Avoid pre-grated options for the best texture.
- Cooking Chicken: Don’t rush the cooking! Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly tender bites.
- Pasta Perfection: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. You want it al dente, which enhances the dish's overall texture.
Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Enhance your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta experience with a few tasty serving ideas!
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Add a Fresh Salad: Pair this rich dish with a light side salad. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette balances the creamy flavors beautifully.
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Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers add both color and nutrition.
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Garnish Generously: Don’t forget extra fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick!
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Breadsticks or Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for an indulgent touch.
These suggestions elevate your meal while keeping it comforting and delicious, perfect for evenings when you crave something special!
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is all about attention to detail! Here are some friendly tips to elevate your dish:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan make a significant difference in flavor. Aim for freshly grated parmesan for a creamy sauce that melts beautifully.
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Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the chicken and onions to cook thoroughly. This ensures the flavors meld perfectly. Keep an eye on your pasta; overcooking can turn it mushy.
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Season Generously: While salt and pepper are essential, don’t forget to adjust your Italian seasoning to suit your taste. A little extra spice can transform your dish!
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Garnish with Love: Finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
For more tips, check out this cooking guide that covers enhancing your pasta dishes! Enjoy your culinary journey!
Time breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta takes a quick 5 minutes. Chop your onions, mince garlic, and season the chicken, all while imagining that creamy goodness about to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Cooking time
After you're prepped, the cooking itself will take about 30 minutes. It's a straightforward process where you'll sear the chicken, sauté the veggies, and let the pasta cook in the flavorful broth.
Total time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, hearty meal that feels like it came straight from a cozy restaurant without any of the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious on the table fast!
For more tips and detailed instructions on making this delightful dish, check out our full recipe. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Understanding the nutritional content of each dish is essential for health-conscious eaters. Here’s a quick rundown on the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta:
Calories
This delightful one-pan meal packs approximately 665 calories per serving, making it a hearty yet satisfying choice for dinner.
Protein
With about 41 grams of protein, this dish is a fantastic option for those looking to build muscle or maintain overall health, especially after a long day.
Sodium
Keep an eye on your sodium intake, as this dish contains around 1,021 mg of sodium. Balance it with a side salad or some fresh veggies for added nutrition!
For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of your favorite ingredients, you can explore resources like the USDA Food Data Central or the Nutrition Data website. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in advance. Just make the dish fully, then cool it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a nutritious balance. Garlic bread is another fantastic option to soak up that creamy sauce—delicious!
How can I adjust the creaminess level?
If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream or parmesan. For a lighter version, simply reduce the amount of cream or mix in a bit of low-fat milk instead. Mixing in starchy pasta water can also help achieve that creamy texture without adding more ingredients.
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish is a true weeknight warrior, marrying creamy flavors with tender chicken effortlessly. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your taste buds will thank you!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan)
Equipment
- cutting board
- knife
- Small bowl
- large pan with lid
- tongs
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½" thickness
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free or protein pasta)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese *
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper. Pat the chicken dry and then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat. Once hot, add avocado oil. Then, add seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add more avocado oil and butter. Then, add onion and season it with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until beginning to get tender and translucent. Add garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to come to a light boil. Then, add the dry pasta and stir to make sure that the pasta is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al-dente.
- Turn off the heat and add in the parmesan, heavy cream and parsley. Stir until the parmesan is melted and the sauce is warm and thickened slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it into the pan along with the pasta. Toss to combine. Then, serve & enjoy!
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