Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
When you think of quick, satisfying meals, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is likely at the top of the list for busy young professionals. Why? It’s not just about the creamy, flavorful sauce that clings to the linguine; it's about how effortlessly this dish fits into your hectic schedule. With prep and cooking times totaling just 25 minutes, it's perfect for those weeknights when you want something delicious without a lengthy commitment in the kitchen.
Not only is it quick, but it’s also versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like baby spinach or turkey bacon to elevate the dish even further. According to statistics, meals that take less than 30 minutes are often the favorites for millennials, emphasizing the demand for time-saving recipes without sacrificing taste.
Moreover, the combination of juicy chicken and rich Parmesan cheese not only satisfies your hunger but also provides a wholesome meal full of protein. If you're curious about perfect pairings, consider a crisp salad or some garlic bread on the side for a complete dining experience. Dive into this comforting recipe and discover why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a staple for many!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Essential ingredients
To whip up a mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you'll need the following essential ingredients:
- Linguine: 300 g (10.5 oz) - This will serve as the heart of your dish and provide the perfect pasta base.
- Chicken: 3 chicken breasts (about 525 g or 18.5 oz), chopped into bite-sized pieces - This adds that satisfying protein element.
- Cornflour (cornstarch): 2 tablespoon - For dredging the chicken, ensuring it fries up beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: A classic seasoning duo to taste.
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon enhances the garlicky goodness.
- Oil: 3 tablespoon for frying the chicken.
Optional ingredients for extra flavor
Want to take your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta to the next level? Consider these optional ingredients:
- Chicken stock: 180 ml (¾ cup) for a richer flavor in your sauce.
- Double (heavy) cream: 180 ml (¾ cup) gives that luscious creaminess.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon for a bright note that balances the richness.
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup) finely grated—essential for that cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley: A small bunch, chopped, for garnish and a pop of color.
Feel free to explore variations like adding turkey bacon or chicken ham for a more robust taste. For more ideas on ingredients or improvements to this classic dish, check out this detailed guide on pasta meals!
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Creating a delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic way to indulge in a comforting dish that's sure to impress your family or friends. This section will walk you through the essential steps of preparing this delicious meal. Ready? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Cook the linguine
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add in 300 grams (10.5 oz) of linguine. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it; this starchy liquid can be a game-changer for your sauce later!
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
While your linguine is cooking, turn your attention to the chicken. Take three chicken breasts (about 525 grams or 18.5 oz) and chop them into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cornflour, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder over the chicken. Toss everything together to make sure each piece is well-coated. This simple step will give your chicken a delightful crispiness when cooked.
Step 3: Sauté the onions and garlic
Next, heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. Since we want to keep the flavors in the pan, remove the chicken from the frying pan and place it in a warm bowl.
In the same pan, you may need to add a splash more oil. Add one finely chopped small onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Follow this with three minced garlic cloves, and cook for another minute until aromatic—this is the point where your kitchen will start to smell heavenly.
Step 4: Make the creamy sauce
To your sautéed onions and garlic, stir in 180 ml (¾ cup) of chicken stock and 180 ml (¾ cup) of double cream. Bring this mixture to a boil, then gently simmer for about 3 minutes until it starts to thicken. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, followed by 50 grams (½ cup) of finely grated parmesan. Stir well until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it creamy and inviting.
Step 5: Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce
Now that everything's cooked, it's time to bring the dish together. Add the drained linguine to the frying pan, and sprinkle the cooked chicken on top. Using tongs, toss everything well until the pasta is fully coated in that delightful creamy sauce. Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water if needed—just a splash at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
To serve, divide your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta into bowls and finish each portion with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an additional dusting of parmesan and black pepper.
Enjoy this heartwarming dish—it’s a great conversation starter for dinner gatherings! If you’re looking for extra inspiration, consider trying different combinations, like adding Turkey Bacon or chopped asparagus for a delightful twist.
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Veggies
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta by incorporating seasonal vegetables! Think vibrant spinach, tender asparagus, or sweet cherry tomatoes. Simply add these when you’re sautéing the onions for a delightful burst of flavor and nutrition. Not only do veggies make the dish visually appealing, but they also enhance the taste and add a satisfying crunch.
Adding Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a Twist
For a savory twist, consider incorporating turkey bacon or chicken ham into your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Their smoky flavors complement the creamy sauce perfectly. Just cook the turkey bacon or chicken ham in the skillet before adding the chicken, and let the fat infuse into the dish for an extra layer of deliciousness. This small change can transform your pasta into an unforgettable meal! Want to explore more creative ideas? Check this out here.
Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Mastering a Creamy Sauce
For the ultimate creamy sauce in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, use heavy cream for richness and add it slowly to avoid curdling. A splash of pasta water can help adjust the consistency—just remember to start with a little! To enhance the garlic flavor, you can sauté it until fragrant but not browned, ensuring a mellow taste that complements the dish beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions Made Easy
Get creative with your ingredients! Instead of chicken, try Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a twist. For cream alternatives, creme fraiche offers a lighter option—just take care not to boil it. Want added nutrition? Toss in frozen peas or fresh baby spinach at the end for a pop of color and flavor. Check out these creative pasta ideas for inspiration!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Perfect sides to complement your dish
To truly elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, pair it with some delightful sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh touch, balancing the creaminess of the pasta. You can also serve garlic bread for that classic Italian feel; it's perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce! For a heartier option, consider roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes—they add color and nutrition to your meal.
Presentation ideas for Instagram-worthy meals
Make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a showstopper on social media! Start by serving it in colorful bowls and sprinkle a generous amount of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. You can also take a cue from food bloggers by laying a few lemon wedges on the side for both decoration and flavor enhancement. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil or a light balsamic glaze over the dish just before snapping that perfect photo. With these tips, your meal will not only taste fantastic but also be absolutely drool-worthy for your followers!
Time breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation Time
For this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you'll want to set aside about 10 minutes for preparation. This includes chopping the chicken and onions and gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped and ready, the cooking will take around 20 minutes. You’ll be pan-frying the chicken and whisking together a creamy garlic sauce while the pasta cooks to perfection. It's a quick and satisfying process that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Total Time
In total, you'll invest approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. That’s a small amount of time for a comforting dish that bursts with flavor! Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to something special after a long day.
For more tips on timing, you might want to check out guides on meal prep from sources like Mindful Chef or BBC Good Food. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Calories Per Serving
Indulging in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta won’t leave you feeling guilty! Each serving contains approximately 766 calories, striking a balance between a satisfying meal and nutritional enjoyment.
Protein Content
Packed with 44 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to support muscle growth and recovery. The combination of chicken and pasta provides essential amino acids, making it a fulfilling option post-workout or for a hearty dinner.
Other Key Nutritional Information
Beyond calories and protein, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta also delivers:
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fat: 35g (with 14g of saturated fat)
- Cholesterol: 146mg
- Sodium: 1305mg
- Fiber: 3g
The mixture of creamy sauce and hearty ingredients provides not only comfort but also a well-rounded meal. For more insights on healthy eating, check out resources like the USDA’s Nutrition Data and Healthline.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this pasta dish fits right into a healthy eating plan while still being delightfully indulgent!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a fantastic meal prep option. You can cook it in advance and pack it into individual containers. Just remember that while it's best enjoyed fresh, it stays delicious for up to two days in the fridge. Reheating it in the microwave for 3-4 minutes with a splash of water or stock can help regain that creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Make sure to cool the pasta first before sealing. It's a great way to enjoy a fast, comforting lunch or dinner later in the week!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, creme fraiche makes an excellent substitute for heavy cream in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. You can also try using full-fat yogurt, but heat it gently to avoid curdling. These alternatives keep the dish rich while reducing calories.
For more creative variations, check out these ideas on using alternatives in sauces. Happy cooking!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
In conclusion, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. Its creamy texture and savory flavors will surely impress your guests, and with just 25 minutes to make it, you'll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- large frying pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 300 g linguine
- 3 pieces chicken breasts, chopped this is about 525g or 18.5oz
- 2 tablespoon cornflour cornstarch in US
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoon oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 180 ml strong chicken stock water plus 2 stock cubes is fine
- 180 ml double (heavy) cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice juice from approx. half a lemon
- 50 g finely grated parmesan cheese
To Serve
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- black pepper
- grated parmesan
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta as per the pack instructions, then drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Whilst the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle over the cornflour, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Toss together to coat.
- Add the oil to a large frying pan and heat over a medium heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked throughout.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place in a warm bowl.
- There should still be a little oil in the pan, if not, add a little splash more along with the chopped onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are just starting to soften.
- Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the stock and cream and bring to the boil. Simmer gently for 3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the lemon juice.
- By now your pasta should be ready. Add the pasta to the pan, then sprinkle over the parmesan.
- Use a set of tongs to lift and drop the pasta in the sauce, until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- If you would like to loosen up the sauce a little, add in splashes of the reserved pasta water, until the sauce consistency is to your liking.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir through. Heat for a further minute to ensure the chicken is hot, then turn off the heat.
- Divide between bowls and top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkling of black pepper and grated parmesan.
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