Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re craving a rich, comforting dish that never fails to impress, let me introduce you to the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe. This divine meal combines tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce that envelops every bite with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this recipe brings gourmet vibes with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a beloved go-to for pasta lovers everywhere.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each component plays a distinct role, from the juicy chicken to the creamy sauce and fresh parsley garnish, ensuring every forkful bursts with taste and color.
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta: Provides the perfect base with a satisfying bite that holds the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps cook the chicken evenly without sticking.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Brings a velvety touch to the sauce and enhances the garlic aroma.
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers tender protein that soaks up the creamy, garlicky sauce.
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced: Contributes a mild, sweet onion flavor that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient delivering that unmistakable bold and fragrant punch.
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to elevate the dish with classic Mediterranean notes.
- 1/3 cup (75 ml) dry white wine: Used to deglaze the pan, adding acidity and depth to the sauce (optional but highly recommended).
- 1 cup (200 ml) heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously creamy texture that defines this recipe.
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan: Melts into the sauce providing a sharp, savory undertone and creamy thickness.
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and color to brighten the dish before serving.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to perfectly balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve a cup or so of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later, ensuring everything clings perfectly to each noodle.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. This forms the hearty protein layer and a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Next, toss in the diced shallot and cook for about a minute until it becomes translucent and sweet. Stir in minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more—this brief cooking time prevents garlic from burning but releases its gorgeous aroma.
Step 4: Add Italian Seasoning and Deglaze
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture and give it a quick stir. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly reduced, which intensifies the flavors.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream and allow the sauce to thicken on a low simmer. Once the texture feels just right—thick yet flowing—add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, clingy consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the fresh chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. At this point, the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is ready to serve, showcasing a vibrant harmony of creamy, savory, and fresh elements.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few whole parsley leaves on top makes the dish look restaurant-worthy and adds a little more flavor punch with every bite. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also elevate the final presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread is an all-time favorite companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in deep bowls with some microgreens or a few toasted pine nuts sprinkled over the top. You can also portion it into creamy nests using a fork for a visually appealing plating that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day meals.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze as beautifully because of the cream sauce, which can sometimes separate. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately without sauce and prepare the sauce fresh later.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream, milk, or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional long pastas like fettuccine or linguine work beautifully, you can try penne, rigatoni, or even bowtie pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. The flavor will be different but still deliciously creamy.
What can I substitute for dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, a splash of chicken broth mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice does a great job of adding acidity and complexity to the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Try adding red pepper flakes when you cook the garlic or stirring in a dash of hot sauce just before serving for a gentle heat kick that complements the garlic flavor.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger pan to ensure even cooking. Keep in mind that thickening the sauce may take slightly longer with increased volume.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a plate of creamy, garlicky pasta with tender chicken that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again because it’s simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Trust me, once you try this, it will find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish combining tender chicken breast, aromatic garlic, and a rich creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features pasta tossed in a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and fresh parsley, delivering comforting Italian-inspired flavors in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (20 g) unsalted butter
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/3 cup (75 ml) dry white wine
- 1 cup (200 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly golden.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely diced shallot to the pan and cook for 1 minute until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Season and Deglaze: Stir in the Italian seasoning. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Cream and Combine: Pour in the heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Then add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it is too thick.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency easily.
- Use fresh garlic and shallots for best flavor.
- Italian seasoning can be substituted with dried oregano and basil if unavailable.
- Dry white wine adds depth; can substitute with chicken broth if preferred.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though sauce may be less thick.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
