Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta: A Cheesy and Delicious Dish
There’s something special about a home-cooked meal that brings everyone together. The smell of garlic and chicken fills the air, making you want to laugh. Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta is all about warmth and comfort, like a big hug in a plate.
Imagine twirling pasta around your fork, covered in a creamy sauce and parmesan cheese. It’s more than just food; it’s a celebration of family and friends. It’s perfect for any day, bringing back memories of love and laughter.
Table of Contents
What is Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta?
Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta is a mix of flavors. It has garlic, chicken, and parmesan cheese. This dish is a classic Italian dish with a cheesy sauce on pasta. It’s easy to make and becomes a favorite in your kitchen.
The ingredients are vibrant and bold. They come together to make a meal you won’t forget.
Defining the Dish
This dish has pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s made with garlic, chicken, and parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners because it’s easy to make and tastes great.
It’s great for families or when you have guests. It brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Ingredients Overview
A few key ingredients make this meal special. They are:
- Chicken: It’s usually chicken breast or thighs, adding protein.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish a strong flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: It adds creaminess and a rich taste.
- Pasta: It’s the base for the sauce, making the dish comforting.
This recipe can be changed by adding veggies or different cheeses. It’s ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Why You Should Try Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting meal that everyone loves. It’s creamy and rich, full of Parmesan cheese. This makes it a favorite, perfect for cooler months.
Families enjoy it for its taste and how easy it is to make. You can have it ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the best garlic chicken pasta dish for any night.
Comfort Food Delight
This recipe is a mix of creamy Parmesan and fresh lemon zest. It’s a flavor that promises comfort in every bite. You can add veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach to make it your own.
Adding a crispy panko breadcrumb topping makes it even better. It adds a nice texture that everyone will love.
Easy to Prepare
Making this dish is simple. Just a quick simmer turns basic ingredients into a satisfying meal. You can serve it with a green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
If you’re short on time, this recipe can be adjusted to fit your needs. It’s great for different diets and can be spiced up with herbs. Plus, leftovers can be stored for up to three days, making meal planning easier.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta
To make a great garlic chicken pasta skillet, you need the right ingredients. Quality chicken, cheese, and seasonings are key. These elements make your dish both tasty and textured.
Chicken Selection
For the protein, pick boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They stay tender and juicy. Use about one pound, cut into small pieces for even cooking.
Shredded Cheese Options
Cheese adds richness to your pasta. Use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-shredded. It melts better and tastes better. About two-thirds of a cup is perfect for topping, and you can add more for extra flavor.
Flavorful Seasonings
Seasonings make your garlic chicken parmesan pasta pop. Mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic for a real flavor boost. Add kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Shallots and fresh parsley add a nice aroma and taste.
| Ingredient | Details |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 pound boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces |
| Cheese | ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan, plus more for serving |
| Pasta | 8 ounces bow tie or penne pasta |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced and garlic powder for seasoning |
| Seasonings | Oregano, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley |
| Oil & Butter | 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter |
Preparation Steps for Homemade Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Starting your homemade garlic chicken parmesan pasta is easy. First, marinate and cook the chicken right. This makes sure every bite is full of flavor and tender. Follow these steps for a dish you’ll love.
The Marinade Process
Start by marinating the chicken. Season 12 oz. of frozen breaded chicken cutlets with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Let it marinate for 15 to 30 minutes. This makes the chicken taste better and stay juicy.
Cooking the Chicken to Perfection
After marinating, cook the chicken as the package says. Let it cool, then cut it into strips. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Cook 1 lb. of cavatappi or short pasta until it’s al dente. Save 1 cup of pasta water for later.
In a big skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium. Sauté 1 small yellow onion and 2 garlic cloves until they’re soft. Add 4 cups of marinara sauce and simmer. Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, until the cheese melts.
Put the cooked chicken strips on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with 2 oz. of Parmesan and ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese melts and the chicken is warm, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Season with black pepper and garnish with fresh basil before serving. This dish will impress everyone at your table. It’s a great start to a delicious garlic chicken pasta bake.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen breaded chicken cutlets | 12 oz. |
| Cavatappi or short pasta | 1 lb. |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1 Tbsp. |
| Yellow onion, finely chopped | 1 small |
| Garlic cloves, finely chopped | 2 |
| Marinara sauce | 4 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, finely grated | 2 oz. (plus more for serving) |
| Shredded mozzarella | ¾ cup |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh basil, torn | For serving |
Cooking Methods: Versatility of Garlic Chicken Pasta
Your easy garlic chicken parmesan pasta recipe can be cooked in different ways. You can make it quickly on the stovetop or bake it for a special touch. Both methods are great and can make your garlic chicken pasta skillet a hit at any time.
Stovetop Skillet Method
The stovetop skillet method is quick and lets you watch the cooking closely. Start by pounding two medium chicken breasts to make them tender. Heat your skillet until it’s very hot for a great sear. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked and golden.
Make a roux with flour and butter, then add chicken broth and half-and-half slowly. This makes a smooth, rich sauce. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. This way, your garlic chicken pasta skillet stays fresh and delicious.
Baking Option for Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
Baking is a great alternative for garlic chicken pasta. It’s perfect for big servings or a cozy casserole. Prepare your chicken, then layer pasta, sauce, and extra cheese in a baking dish.
Bake until it’s bubbly and golden. This method frees up your stovetop and lets the flavors blend well. Your family will love the satisfying garlic chicken pasta bake.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Chicken Pasta Dish
To make the best garlic chicken parmesan pasta, pay close attention to details and choose fresh ingredients. Pick the right pasta and use fresh ingredients to make your dish stand out. Here are some tips for a great culinary experience.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Choosing Brami Fusilli pasta can make a big difference. It has more protein and fiber than regular pasta, which is good for you. Also, cooking the pasta until it’s al dente helps it hold the sauce well, making every bite delicious.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic and shallots make your sauce taste amazing. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and oregano for extra flavor. Use good olive oil for cooking and add fresh spinach or roasted zucchini for nutrition and color.
For the sauce, mix butter, onion, garlic, heavy cream, flour slurry, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Adding Parmesan cheese before serving makes it even creamier. This makes your dish hard to resist.
Save some pasta water to mix with the sauce for the right consistency. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again later.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brami Fusilli pasta | High protein and fiber content |
| Fresh garlic and shallots | Aromatic base for the sauce |
| Heavy cream | Rich texture for the sauce |
| Fresh spinach or roasted vegetables | Adds nutrition and color |
| Parmesan cheese | Extra creaminess and flavor |
Pairing Suggestions for Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta
Enjoying garlic chicken parmesan pasta is even better with the right pairings. Side dishes and drinks can make your meal complete. They help balance the flavors of the pasta.
Complementary Side Dishes
Adding vibrant side dishes can make garlic chicken parmesan pasta even richer. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread or garlic knots for a buttery infusion
- Keto Arugula Salad with Avocado for a fresh crunch
- Honey Oven Roasted Vegetables to bring out natural sweetness
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts seasoned perfectly
- Cucumber Salad to add a refreshing bite
- Mashed Potatoes for a comforting side
- Caesar Salad for a classic touch
These sides are perfect with garlic chicken pasta bake. They add to the meal without taking over.
Wine Pairing Ideas
Choosing the right wine can make your meal even better. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with garlic and parmesan. Light Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay also work great. Their acidity cuts through the dish’s richness.
Drinking a glass of wine with garlic chicken pasta bake is unforgettable. It makes the meal even more special.
Storage and Leftover Ideas
Proper storage of your garlic chicken pasta skillet keeps its flavor and freshness. This makes it easy to enjoy later. Meal prep ideas for garlic chicken let you enjoy this dish more than once.
Meal Prep Advantages
Meal prepping saves time and lets you control what you eat. When making your garlic chicken pasta skillet, remember these tips:
- Store it in an airtight container for the best taste.
- Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze it for up to 3 months if you want to save it longer.
- Freeze leftover sauce for 1-2 months, but not the pasta.
Reheating Tips
Reheating leftovers needs care to keep the taste good. Here’s how to reheat your dish:
- Use the microwave or stovetop to reheat fridge leftovers.
- For a gentle heat, try a makeshift double boiler on the stovetop.
- Defrost frozen sauce in the fridge overnight and then reheat it on the stove. Add broth if it’s too thick.
- Reheat frozen sauce over fresh pasta for a tasty meal.
Health Benefits of Garlic Chicken Pasta Skillet
The Garlic Chicken Pasta Skillet is not just delicious. It’s also packed with health benefits. It has ingredients that make it a balanced meal, giving you the nutrients you need.
Nutritional Value of Ingredients
This pasta dish uses chickpea pasta, which is full of fiber and protein. You get 47g of protein and 10g of fiber in each serving. These help you feel full and keep your blood sugar stable.
Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, which are good for your gut. Chicken thighs add flavor and protein, with 35g of protein per serving. They’re also easier to cook than chicken breast.
Whole-wheat rotini, spinach, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese make the dish complete. They add vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal.
Benefits of Garlic and Chicken
Garlic is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It boosts your immune system and fights inflammation. It’s a great match for chicken, which is full of nutrients.
The dish has about 683 calories per serving. Olive oil and butter add healthy fats, making it creamy. It also has 772mg of sodium and 619mg of potassium for your heart and electrolyte balance.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
Looking for a quick and tasty meal for busy weeknights? The garlic chicken pasta recipe is a great pick. It cooks in about 30 minutes, fitting perfectly into your evening schedule. This lets you spend more quality time with your loved ones.
Quick Cooking Time
This one-pot recipe is easy to make and clean up. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings. With just six ingredients, you can make a delicious dinner fast. This way, you can focus on what’s important.
Family-Friendly Appeal
This meal is loved by all at the table. You can add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms to please everyone. It’s easy to make, so even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it. Serve it with pasta, mashed potatoes, or veggies for a full meal without too much work.
Conclusion
Garlic chicken parmesan pasta is a top pick for easy family recipes. It combines the joy of comfort food with simple cooking. This dish is more than a meal; it’s an experience.
It pairs pan-seared chicken with garlic butter sauce and creamy Parmesan pasta. Each bite is a perfect mix of flavors. It’s a meal that’s definitely worth your time.
This pasta dish is also very flexible. You can keep it classic with chicken or try a vegetarian version with fresh veggies. It’s great for busy nights or family gatherings, pleasing everyone with its creamy sauce.
It’s also easy to store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for later. Garlic chicken parmesan pasta is perfect for your meal plans. It’s time to try this cheesy, comforting dish in your kitchen!
FAQ
What makes Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta a comforting dish?
How long does it take to prepare Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
What type of chicken is best for this pasta dish?
Should I use fresh or pre-shredded cheese?
What are some recommended cooking methods for Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake?
What types of pasta work best with Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta?
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta?
How should I store leftovers of Garlic Chicken Pasta Skillet?
What are the health benefits of Garlic Chicken Parmesan Pasta?
Why is Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta ideal for families?
Garlic Chicken Parm Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, butterflied or pounded to ½inch thickness
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
- 46 large garlic cloves minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta regular, glutenfree, or highprotein
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Season & Cook the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat chicken dry, then rub both sides evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 35 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Lower heat to mediumlow and add 1 tbsp avocado oil and butter.
- Add onion, season with salt, and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Once the broth lightly boils, stir in dry penne pasta.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
- Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Turn off the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and parsley.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust with salt & pepper as needed.
- Step 5: Assemble & Serve
- Slice the rested chicken into strips.
- Toss the chicken into the pasta and mix to combine.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Pair with: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad.
Drink pairing: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a lightbodied red wine like Pinot Noir. Tips & Variations
For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
Make it spicy: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the garlic.
Swap the protein: Try shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
