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Transform simple pantry ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal with this creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder combines perfectly seasoned chicken with a luxurious garlic cream sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
The first time I made this for my family, even my pickiest eater asked for seconds - that's when I knew this recipe was special.
Essential Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken: Breast or thighs work beautifully
- Heavy Cream: Creates silky sauce base
- Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated melts best
- Fresh Garlic: Essential for deep flavor
- Choice of Pasta: Farfalle or penne hold sauce well
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth to sauce
- Fresh Herbs: For brightness
- Unsalted Butter: For richness
Using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated makes a noticeable difference in sauce texture.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Pasta Preparation
- Cook pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Step 2: Chicken Seasoning
- Season chicken generously with paprika, thyme, oregano, and Italian seasoning. Pound to even thickness.
- Step 3: Chicken Cooking
- Sear for 5 minutes per side, then lower heat and cook covered until done.
- Step 4: Sauce Building
- Melt butter, add seasonings, then flour. Gradually whisk in broth and cream.
- Step 5: Final Assembly
- Add Parmesan, toss with pasta, and incorporate sliced chicken.
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Storage Solutions
- Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Reheat gently with added cream
- Keep sauce separate for meal prep
- Add fresh herbs when serving
Make-Ahead Strategies
- Cook chicken in advance
- Prep seasoning mixtures
- Grate cheese ahead
- Have pasta ready to cook
Serving Suggestions
- Complete the meal with garlic bread, fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty Italian bread, and steamed broccoli
Customization Options
- Make it your own with different pasta shapes, added vegetables, various cheese combinations, protein substitutions, and spice adjustments
Troubleshooting Tips
- If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, thin with extra cream, lower heat while stirring, and avoid overcooking
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Temperature Control
- Medium-high for chicken searing
- Low-medium for sauce
- Gentle heat for reheating
- Warm plates for serving
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta proves that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create something extraordinary. It's the kind of recipe that becomes a weeknight favorite while being special enough for company.
Creating Traditions
Some recipes become more than just dinner - they become part of our routine, bringing comfort and satisfaction to busy days. This pasta dish has that power.
The Art of Sauce
Understanding how to build a proper cream sauce makes all the difference. Starting with a roux, then gradually adding liquids, creates the perfect silky texture that clings to every bite.
Beyond Basic Pasta
While this recipe starts simply, it teaches essential cooking techniques that build confidence in the kitchen. Master this, and you'll understand the fundamentals of many classic pasta dishes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
- Yes, any pasta shape works well - penne, fettuccine, or rotini are great alternatives.
- → Why save the pasta water?
- The starchy water helps thin the sauce while keeping it creamy and helps it cling to the pasta.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead. Reheat with a splash of cream or pasta water.
- → Is there a lighter version?
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese amount for a lighter sauce.
- → Can I use chicken thighs?
- Yes, boneless thighs work well. Adjust cooking time as needed until internal temperature reaches 165°F.