Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a comforting and cozy meal, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! This dish is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine, all brought together in one skillet for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. With each bite, you’ll experience a rich burst of flavors, making it a sure favorite for both friends and family alike. Let’s dive into the delightful process of preparing this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to infuse the oil with its aromatic goodness.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly – it should become rich and creamy.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the strands in that tantalizing sauce.
- Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm to relish every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you’d like to add more vegetables, sauté some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
- To make this recipe even quicker, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes great use of the skillet technique, allowing the chicken to brown nicely while infusing the dish with garlic and herbs. Browning meat adds depth to the flavor, while deglazing the pan with chicken broth creates a rich base for the sauce. The addition of cream and cheese then transforms the broth into a luscious, silky sauce that clings beautifully to the fettuccine.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is a delightful choice, feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or spaghetti.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version that’s still full of flavor.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a stunning meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night at home or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s destined to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy every delicious bite!