The Secret to Effortless Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
The beauty of this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. The key is to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which cook quickly, and to prepare the pasta and sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz. penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth.
Assemble the Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Add the cooked penne pasta and sliced chicken to the Parmesan garlic sauce, and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and give it a final stir.
Serving and Storing Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
Serve the Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to help reconstitute the sauce if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
There are so many reasons why this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also:
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those nights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken creates a rich, creamy, and utterly crave-worthy pasta dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, using different types of pasta, or experimenting with other cheeses.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting, cheesy goodness of this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta.
Elevate Your Weeknight Dinners with Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta
When you’re craving a delicious, satisfying pasta dish that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night, the “Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta: Ready in 30 Minutes!” is the perfect solution. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Give this quick and easy meal a try tonight and enjoy the flavors of a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
