Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Seriously, this dish has saved my sanity more times than I can count. It’s quick, it’s simple, and oh my goodness, the flavors are just divine! Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a burst of garlicky goodness all tossed together with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food at its best and takes less than 30 minutes to whip up! I remember the first time I made it; my family couldn’t get enough and kept asking for seconds. Now, it’s a staple in our home, and I can’t wait for you to try it! Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to dish too!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (any kind you like!)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups spinach (fresh is best!)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for that beautiful garnish)
Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor. I always love using freshly grated parmesan; it just makes everything taste so much better! Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare the Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process! This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes together quickly, so make sure you’re prepped and ready to go. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this deliciousness!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s cook the pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—about 4 to 6 quarts should do the trick. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 8 oz of pasta. I usually opt for something like penne or fusilli, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it to have a little bite! Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget to save a splash of that pasta water. It can help bring everything together later!
Cooking the Chicken
Now, let’s get that chicken sizzling! In a skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. Wow, that aroma! It’s the perfect way to start this dish. Now, season your 2 boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and carefully add them to the skillet. Cook each side for about 6 to 7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the juices run clear, and they’re no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Combining Ingredients
It’s time to bring everything together! In that same skillet with all the garlicky goodness, add in the 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook until it wilts down—this usually takes just a couple of minutes. Now, toss in your cooked pasta and the sliced chicken. For that creamy, cheesy finish, add in the 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese and mix everything together. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up! Finally, garnish with the chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Wow, doesn’t that look inviting? You’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why I’m so passionate about this recipe and why you’ll fall in love with it too:
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients on hand already! It’s all about fresh chicken, pasta, garlic, and that glorious parmesan.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan is simply heavenly! Each bite is packed with flavor, and the spinach adds a lovely touch of freshness.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes can elevate this dish even more.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults alike. You’ll be hearing “Yum!” and “Can I have more?” around the dinner table!
- Comfort Food: It’s hearty enough to satisfy your cravings while still being light and healthy. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul!
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be on your rotation for good. Enjoy the joy of cooking and the deliciousness that follows!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! I always find it helpful to know what I’m putting into my body, and this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also fairly balanced. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, based on the ingredients used:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
These values can vary a bit depending on the specific brands and quantities you use, but it’s a good general guide. I love that this dish is packed with protein from the chicken, and the spinach adds a lovely boost of nutrients too! Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s both comforting and nourishing!
Tips for Success
Before you dive into making this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This not only tastes better but also helps it hold up when you mix everything together!
- Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful. Nobody likes dry chicken!
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more than 3 cloves! Just remember that garlic can get bitter if overcooked, so sauté it just until fragrant.
- Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is a classic choice, try mixing in some pecorino or even a bit of mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Cheese is a wonderful way to personalize this dish!
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: That reserved pasta water is liquid gold! Adding a splash can help create a lovely, creamy sauce that binds everything together beautifully.
- Make It Ahead: If you want to save time, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine everything when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great meal prep option!
- Tweak the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Cooking is all about finding the right balance for your taste buds!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a fantastic Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’ll impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking process and happy eating!
Variations
The beauty of this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is that it’s super versatile! I love to switch things up based on what I have on hand or just to keep things exciting. Here are some fun variations to inspire your creativity:
- Veggie Boost: Add any vegetables you love! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes can add color and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic for a few minutes before adding the chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish! Try adding basil, thyme, or oregano to give it a fresh twist. I often toss in some fresh basil right at the end for a burst of flavor.
- Different Pasta: Switch up the type of pasta for a new texture! Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works wonderfully, or even try a fun shape like farfalle or orecchiette to make it more playful.
- Make It Creamy: If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich, creamy sauce that’ll take it to the next level.
- Protein Swap: Don’t have chicken on hand? No problem! Shrimp, salmon, or even chickpeas can make a delightful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. It’s a simple way to make it a bit more exciting!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas! The best part about cooking is making a recipe your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what delicious combinations you can come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to properly store your leftovers of this delectable Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta so you can enjoy it again later! Trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite!
First, once your pasta has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. I love using glass containers as they help keep the flavors intact and are microwave-safe. Don’t forget to store it in the fridge, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you know you won’t finish it in that time, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it should hold up well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to dig in again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Now, reheating is just as important to make sure it tastes just as good as when you first made it! For microwave reheating, place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. This keeps it from drying out. If you prefer using the stovetop, add a splash of water or a little extra olive oil to a skillet over medium heat, then add your pasta. Stir until heated, adding more liquid if needed. This method helps bring back that lovely creamy texture!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta again without losing any of its deliciousness. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you on your cooking journey:
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. If you’re in a pinch, you can cook it straight from frozen, but it’ll take a bit longer to ensure it’s cooked through. Always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What type of pasta works best?
Honestly, any pasta you love will work beautifully! I often use penne or rotini, as they hold onto the sauce well. But feel free to get creative! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta are all fantastic options.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Just omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also toss in some chickpeas or white beans for protein. The garlic and parmesan still shine through, making it super satisfying!
How do I store leftovers?
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating!
Can I add more cheese?
Oh, absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to sprinkle in extra parmesan or even mix in some mozzarella for a gooey texture. Just remember, the more cheese, the merrier!
I hope these answers help you make the most of your Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta experience. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe: 6 Minutes to Joy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious garlic parmesan chicken pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken and let it rest before slicing.
- Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, spinach, and parmesan cheese.
- Toss everything together and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add vegetables of your choice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe