Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A comforting pasta dish featuring chicken, garlic, and Parmesan, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (linguine or penne)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Stir occasionally for even browning.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, mixing well to infuse the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a velvety sauce. Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For dietary alternatives, you can swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options and use dairy-free cream to cater to lactose intolerance. Tips include adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for freshness, and experimenting with fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile.