If you are on the hunt for a dish that combines creamy comfort with a burst of bold flavors, I cannot recommend this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe enough. It is a delightful marriage of juicy, tender chicken breast coated with a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan sauce, all wrapped up with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re whipping up dinner on a busy weeknight or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is straightforward, speedy, and endlessly satisfying. Each bite delivers the warmth of garlic and richness of Parmesan that makes pasta dishes truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients will ensure your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Every item plays a crucial role, from tenderizing the chicken to enriching the sauce’s texture and adding depth with fresh seasonings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The perfect base for searing chicken, adding a fruity richness.
- 1 ½ lb Springer mountain farms chicken breast: Lean and juicy protein that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky sweetness to the chicken.
- 1 ½ teaspoon oregano: Brings herbal freshness that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the garlicky goodness throughout the meal.
- ½ teaspoon thyme: Adds an earthiness complementing the Parmesan’s nuttiness.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall depth with a mild kick.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors perfectly.
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta: Bowtie-shaped pasta with a great bite that holds sauce beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds velvety richness to the sauce and helps meld flavors.
- 2 teaspoons dry shallots: Providing a subtle oniony sweetness that lifts the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the herbs and spices together.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Adds depth and slight tanginess to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Gluten Free 1:1 Flour: Helps thicken the sauce into a luxurious consistency.
- 3 cups heavy cream: Gives the dish that irresistibly creamy texture.
- 12 oz shredded Parmesan: The unmistakable cheesy flavor that makes this pasta extraordinary.
- ¼ cup pasta water: Contains starch that helps the sauce cling perfectly to the noodles.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Adjusted here to season the sauce just right.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Another layer of garlicky punch to the creamy sauce.
How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Kick things off by boiling your gluten-free farfalle pasta in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture—firm yet tender. This ensures the pasta holds up against the creamy sauce without turning mushy, setting the stage for the perfect bite every time.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create an aromatic seasoning blend. Pound the chicken breasts slightly to even out their thickness, then rub this mix generously on both sides. This seasoning pack infuses the chicken with layers of flavor that shine through after cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust. Lower the heat, cover, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. This method locks in juiciness while giving you that perfect sear.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and toss in dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer briefly to release their fragrances. Add the gluten-free flour and stir thoroughly to form a roux, scraping the pan’s bottom to incorporate those golden bits. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth and silky.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Combine
Once your sauce base is ready, stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts fully and the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Add your cooked pasta to the pan, tossing well to coat every piece. Incorporate reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired sauce thickness—it helps the sauce cling lovingly to each bowtie.
Step 6: Slice Chicken and Serve
Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips and gently fold them into the pasta. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with creamy, garlicky Parmesan pasta is ready to be enjoyed—serve it hot and watch everyone dive in happily!
How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil right before serving. These herbs add a bright, fresh contrast that complements the richness beautifully. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can enhance the cheesy goodness and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make great companions, adding color, texture, and a healthy crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning family-style feast, serve the pasta in a large wooden bowl with sliced chicken artfully arranged on top. If you want to impress guests, plate the pasta twirled neatly in individual bowls with a sprig of herb and a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delightful, if not better.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, be aware that the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. This helps restore its creamy texture without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great for holding onto the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine are excellent alternatives that will soak up the garlic Parmesan goodness just as well.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, by choosing gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour as recommended, this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe is perfectly safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will offer a richer flavor and remain juicy, but ensure they are cooked thoroughly to the appropriate temperature for safe consumption.
How spicy is the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
This dish is mild in spice but packed with savory and garlicky flavors. If you want a little heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken or sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a non-dairy cream and vegan Parmesan alternative. The taste will be different but still creamy and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that blends ease, comfort, and rich flavors into one fantastic dish. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the creamy sauce with tender chicken that makes every forkful feel special. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table time and again.
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Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Featuring tender seared chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, combined with gluten-free farfalle pasta tossed in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes using simple pantry staples for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast
- 1 ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Pasta
- 12 oz gluten free farfalle pasta
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons dry shallots
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons gluten free 1:1 flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the gluten-free farfalle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Mix Chicken Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the chicken seasoning blend.
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts gently to slightly thin them out. Season both sides of the chicken evenly with the prepared seasoning mixture.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Cook Chicken Through: After searing both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and cook the chicken for an additional 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove Chicken: Take the chicken out of the pan and place it onto a cutting board to rest.
- Make Sauce Base: Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt completely. Stir in dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for one minute to release the flavors.
- Thicken Sauce: Sprinkle in the gluten-free flour and stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate.
- Add Liquids: Slowly pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time as needed to thin out the sauce.
- Slice Chicken and Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and gently fold them into the pasta. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Be sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky finish.
- Monitor chicken internal temperature to avoid undercooking or drying out.
- Use gluten-free pasta and flour to keep the dish gluten-free.
- Add fresh parsley or basil as garnish for added freshness and color, if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American