There’s something magical about a plate of creamy garlic chicken pasta. Imagine twirling your fork around silky strands of pasta, enveloped in a luscious, garlicky sauce that hits every flavor note just right. The aroma wafts through the air as you prepare it, promising a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
I have fond memories of whipping up this dish for friends during cozy movie nights. As the pasta simmered away, laughter filled the room, and my friends’ eager expressions turned my simple cooking into an unforgettable experience. Trust me; this creamy garlic chicken pasta isn’t just food; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic chicken pasta is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying without being overwhelming
- Its appealing creamy texture is visually stunning on any dinner table
- Versatile enough for both casual meals or special occasions, it’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to
I once made this for my family, and their delighted reactions were priceless—especially when they fought over the last bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its dreamy consistency—don’t skimp on this heavenly ingredient.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; it adds incredible depth to your sauce.
Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine or spaghetti work beautifully here; choose what you love most!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your dish.
Olive Oil: A drizzle to sauté the chicken and add richness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t forget these staples!
Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish; adds a lovely color and fresh taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop your garlic finely. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes each side—until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest.
Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—being careful not to burn it! The kitchen should smell divine at this point; if not, you might need more garlic next time!
Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring continuously. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened—about 5 minutes. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring until melted into a rich sauce.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but reserve some pasta water! Slice cooked chicken into strips or chunks before adding it back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss in cooked pasta along with reserved water as needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Serve It Up
Plate your creamy garlic chicken pasta generously and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color. Grab your fork—it’s time to dig in!
This creamy garlic chicken pasta is bound to become a favorite at your table—a perfect blend of flavors that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite and remember: cooking is all about having fun!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic chicken pasta is not just comfort food; it’s a hug on a plate
- The blend of rich creaminess and garlic will fill your kitchen with an aroma that feels like home
- Plus, it’s quick enough for any weeknight dinner while being fancy enough for guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then prepare the pasta while making the creamy sauce. This method saves time and ensures everything is ready simultaneously, adding to the deliciousness factor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experimenting with spices like paprika or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor to new heights, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore that luscious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that perfect creamy consistency, don’t rush adding the cheese; let it melt slowly
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is your friend here!
- And always taste as you go—seasoning can make or break this dish
Cooking this creamy garlic chicken pasta reminds me of a cozy dinner party where everyone raved about how good it was—my secret? Lots of love and maybe a glass of wine while I cooked.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for creamy garlic chicken pasta?
Fettuccine or penne are great choices for holding onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make creamy garlic chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but prepare the sauce separately to maintain its creaminess until you’re ready to serve.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta and add vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for more nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Indulge in a plate of creamy garlic chicken pasta that promises comfort and rich flavors. This dish features tender chicken coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce, perfectly enveloping your favorite pasta. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring every bite feels like a warm hug. Gather your loved ones around the table and create unforgettable memories with this delightful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather and prep all ingredients.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let rest. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain while reserving some pasta water.
- Slice cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
