Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each strand coated in a creamy garlic sauce, bursting with flavor, and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts The aroma wafting from the kitchen will have your family gathering around the table before you can even say “dinner’s ready.” For more inspiration, check out this Crockpot Creamy Chicken Recipe.
This dish brings back fond memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air, and everyone fought for the last bite. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes Get ready for a culinary adventure that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to whip up after a long day
- The rich, savory flavors delight the senses while being visually appealing on any plate
- It’s versatile enough for picky eaters, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on preferences
- Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or as a meal prep hero!
Sharing this dish at dinner always leads to compliments and second helpings, making it a cherished family favorite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 1 pound of chicken breasts; feel free to adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
- Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta; I love using fettuccine for its ability to hold onto sauce.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves; the more garlic, the better in my book!
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor; pre-grated stuff just doesn’t cut it.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; it’s worth splurging on quality here.
- Heavy Cream: A splash adds creaminess without weighing down the meal too much.
- Spinach: Fresh baby spinach not only adds color but boosts nutrition in this dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those lovely flavors.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Garlic and Spinach: Once chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from the skillet. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in fresh spinach until wilted.
Create the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir well to combine with garlic and spinach. Roasted Asparagus with Balsamic Goat Cheese Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until melted and creamy.
Toss Everything Together: Slice cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with drained pasta. Mix everything thoroughly so every strand gets coated in that glorious sauce.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Just before serving, drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the top for that delightful zing that ties all flavors together beautifully!
Enjoy your wonderful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe for a Healthy Dinner! It’s sure to become one of your go-to meals! Cranberry Chicken Salad.
You Must Know
- This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that’s easy to prepare
- The aroma of garlic combined with the creamy sauce will make your kitchen smell heavenly
- It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first in a hot pan, then cook your pasta while simmering the creamy garlic sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything is perfectly timed for a delightful meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ingredients! Add spinach for extra greens, or switch out chicken for shrimp or mushrooms. Personalizing it makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F
- Avoid overcooking the pasta for that ideal al dente texture
- Lastly, always taste your sauce before serving; seasoning can elevate flavors significantly
Sharing this dish with friends at my last dinner party brought so much joy; they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! Cooking together created such memorable moments around the table.
FAQ
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love creamy pasta, especially with added veggies!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and enjoy the same great flavors.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy, garlicky goodness and tender chicken, making it a perfect dish for any dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe combines al dente pasta with fresh spinach and a rich Parmesan sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this dish guarantees satisfaction and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream, mixing with garlic and spinach, then gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Slice cooked chicken and return to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss to coat evenly in sauce.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
