Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A comforting and creamy pasta dish with garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 12 ounces your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized cubes Substitute with chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Flavor Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Swap for almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast can replace this for a dairy-free alternative.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil Any oil will work.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish Optional but adds a lovely touch.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Adding Garlic
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat all ingredients in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the aroma as it fills your kitchen!
Notes
For additional flavor, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes.