Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When it comes to weeknight dinners, homemade meals often trump takeout for a myriad of reasons. First and foremost, there's the satisfaction of cooking with fresh, quality ingredients, knowing exactly what you're putting into your dish. Takeout might seem convenient, but it often lacks flavor and freshness, not to mention control over the nutrition. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, meals prepared at home can be healthier and more balanced compared to restaurant alternatives. So why not try your hand at a delicious dish like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta? It's simple, quick, and promises to please the taste buds of both you and your loved ones.
Another perk of making meals at home is the delightful aromas that fill your kitchen, creating a comforting atmosphere that takeout simply can't match. Your friends and family will be drawn to the savory scent of garlic and parmesan wafting through the air. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or entertaining guests, homemade meals elevate the experience. With our easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a scrumptious, creamy pasta and chicken dinner on the table in no time—much faster than waiting for that delivery! Let's dive into this flavorful dish that could easily become your new weeknight favorite!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Key ingredients and their importance
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta hinges on choosing the right ingredients. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breast — it cooks quickly and remains tender, making it an ideal choice. The avocado oil (or olive oil) not only enhances flavor but ensures your chicken cooks up beautifully golden. Don't forget fresh garlic; it brings a robust flavor that is essential in Italian cuisine. Lastly, a marriage of finely grated parmesan cheese and heavy cream creates a luscious, creamy sauce that's irresistible.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to get creative with your version of this dish! Add in some spinach or broccoli for a pop of color and added nutrition, or switch up the pasta shape—try farfalle or fusilli instead. If you’re looking for a hint of spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your taste preferences. Find a full list of alternatives on Healthline.
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Step 1: Season the chicken
Let’s kick things off by adding flavor to our chicken! In a small mixing bowl, combine your Italian seasoning, paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. For best results, make sure to pat your boneless, skinless chicken breast dry before rubbing that seasoning blend all over both sides—this is crucial for maximum flavor penetration. Not only does this bring life to the chicken, but it also elevates the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta to a whole new level.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Once your chicken is well-seasoned, grab a large pan and heat it over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of avocado oil (or olive oil, if that’s your preference). When the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add your chicken. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until that juicy chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, let it rest on a cutting board; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains succulent.
Step 3: Sauté the aromatics
With the chicken resting, it's time to build some aromatic goodness in that same pan. Lower the heat slightly and toss in another tablespoon of avocado oil along with a tablespoon of unsalted butter to amp up the flavor. Next, add in your diced jumbo yellow onion, seasoning it with a pinch of salt. Cook until the onions are tender and translucent—this usually takes about 3 minutes. Now, add your minced garlic, letting it sauté for just one minute. The rich aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your stomach growl!
Step 4: Cook the pasta
Now for the fun part! Deglaze the pan by pouring in two cups of chicken broth, scraping up all the tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Bring that broth to a light boil before adding in 8 ounces of dry penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is submerged, then cover the pan and let it cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. As you wait, take a moment to appreciate how good your kitchen smells right now!
Step 5: Combine and finish
Once the pasta is ready, turn off the heat. Stir in the finely grated parmesan cheese, the heavy cream, and chopped parsley. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that brings the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta together beautifully. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, and then slice the rested chicken into strips. Toss it into the pan with the pasta and sauce, giving everything a gentle mix. Serve it up, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing dish that's bound to impress!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Pasta
If you're in the mood for something a bit different, try swapping out the chicken for succulent shrimp! The Garlic Parmesan Shrimp and Pasta variation offers a delightful twist that pairs beautifully with the savory garlic and creamy cheese sauce. Just sauté your shrimp in the same way as the chicken, adding a splash of lemon juice for extra zest. This dish cooks up in no time and is perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Vegetables
For a heartier, veggie-packed option, consider adding seasonal vegetables to your classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Whether you choose broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, tossing them in with the chicken and pasta creates a vibrant, balanced meal. Simply stir-fry the vegetables alongside the onions and garlic, and watch as they soak up all the delicious flavors. This variation not only makes your meal more nutritious, but it's also a fantastic way to use up any veggies lingering in your fridge!
Check out more tips for incorporating fresh produce into your meals here.
Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Best practices for cooking chicken
To achieve juicy and flavorful chicken in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, start by patting the chicken dry before seasoning it. This not only helps the seasoning adhere better but also ensures a delightful sear. Cook the chicken on medium heat, turning only once, so you lock in those flavors. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is your magic number.
Tips for pasta perfection
For perfect pasta every time, add it to the boiling chicken broth to infuse extra flavor while cooking. Timing is key: keep an eye on the clock, as overcooked pasta turns mushy. Remember to taste it at the 10-minute mark for the ideal al-dente texture, and don’t forget to save a splash of pasta water; it can help adjust your sauce consistency!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Ideal Pairings
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, consider serving it with a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. You could also add garlic bread on the side for that extra touch of comfort. If you’re in the mood for something bubbly, sparkling water or a light herbal tea pairs wonderfully!
Presentation Ideas
For a visually appealing plate, serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta in a shallow bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra parmesan. You can also add a lemon wedge on the side for a pop of color and zest. Using colorful plates or bowls can enhance the dining experience, making it feel extra special without much effort. Try these tips for a meal that not only tastes great but looks fabulous!
Time breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation time
Get ready in about 15 minutes! This includes gathering your ingredients and seasoning the chicken, ensuring everything is on hand and prepped for an efficient cooking experience.
Cooking time
The cooking process will take around 20 minutes as you’ll be sautéing, boiling pasta, and creating a creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together.
Total time
In total, you’ll be looking at approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. With such a quick and delightful dinner option, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta makes weeknight meals feel like a special occasion! Want to elevate your cooking skills? Check out this excellent guide on cooking pasta perfectly for pro tips.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When it comes to enjoying a hearty meal like Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, understanding its nutritional value can help you balance your diet comfortably. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Calories
Each serving packs approximately 665 calories, making it a satisfying option for a filling dinner.
Protein
You'll derive about 41 grams of protein from this dish, thanks to the chicken and parmesan, contributing significantly to your daily protein needs.
Fat and Carbohydrates
With 32 grams of fat, including healthy fats from avocado oil, and around 53 grams of carbohydrates, this meal provides a delightful mix of energy sources. For more detailed nutritional insights, consider referring to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
Enjoy your meal while keeping these nutritional aspects in mind!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for penne, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are also excellent options. Just keep an eye on the cooking times as different pastas may require varying lengths to become al dente.
How do I make this dish creamy without heavy cream?
If you're looking to avoid heavy cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a lighter alternative. Blending these with a bit of chicken broth can create a creamy sauce without the added calories. Another option is to use coconut milk, which will add a subtle sweetness and depth.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan on hand, grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can make fantastic substitutes. Nutritional yeast is particularly popular for those seeking a dairy-free option, as it gives a similar cheesy flavor. You could even experiment with finely grated asiago for a different twist!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a perfect weeknight meal. This easy-to-make recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also serves as a great crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight and experience its deliciousness!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Equipment
- Large pan
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½" thickness
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta normal, gluten free or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese it's best to freshly grate your own
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix together the italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper. Pat the chicken dry and then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat. Once hot, add avocado oil. Then, add seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add more avocado oil and butter. Then, add onion and season it with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until beginning to get tender and translucent. Add garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to come to a light boil. Then, add the dry pasta and stir to make sure that the pasta is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al-dente.
- Turn off the heat and add in the parmesan, heavy cream and parsley. Stir until the parmesan is melted and the sauce is warm and thickened slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it into the pan along with the pasta. Toss to combine. Then, serve & enjoy!
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