Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering comfort and satisfaction in just about 25 minutes. With its creamy texture and aromatic garlic notes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Comforting: The creamy sauce provides a warm, satisfying meal.
• Versatile: You can customize it with various add-ins like vegetables or different proteins.

Main Ingredients

Chicken

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use one large breast for two servings or two smaller ones. Flattening the chicken ensures even cooking.
• Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, consider using thighs instead of breasts.

Pasta

• Fettuccine or Penne: Any pasta shape works well; choose your favorite.

Sauce Components

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for flavor.
• Cream: Use single or light cream for a balanced texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the sauce’s flavor.
• Olive Oil and Butter: A combination that adds depth to the dish.

Fresh Ingredients

• Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary adds a lovely flavor, but thyme or sage can be substituted.

Additions

Feel free to enhance your pasta with:

• Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or spinach.
• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add earthiness.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon pieces for added crunch.

Expert Tips

1. Flatten Chicken Breasts: Ensures even cooking and juiciness.
2. Gentle Simmer: Keep the cream sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Helps adjust the sauce’s consistency when combining with pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Work

1. Gather all ingredients and tools before starting.
2. Boil water for pasta and prepare a measuring cup for reserved pasta water.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Slice chicken in half lengthwise and pound to an even thickness.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes per side).
4. Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add white wine to deglaze, scraping up any bits from the bottom.
2. Add butter and minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually add cream and chicken broth while stirring continuously.
4. Bring to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat to low.

Cooking Pasta

1. In boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Combining Everything

1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce along with sliced chicken.
2. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.

Serving

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving.
2. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta hot!

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves four people, providing approximately:

• Calories: 526 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 20 g (Saturated Fat: 9 g)
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Sodium: 810 mg
• Fiber: 3 g

FAQs : Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe

What type of pasta works best?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but fettuccine or penne are great choices for this dish.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.

Can I make this dish without wine?

Yes, substitute with low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer not to use wine.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well; just add a splash of reserved pasta water when reheating to restore creaminess.

Conclusion:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is an easy yet indulgent meal that brings comfort to any dinner table. Its simple ingredients come together to create a rich sauce that perfectly coats your favorite pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and quick preparation time. Enjoy experimenting with different add-ins and make this recipe your own!