Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
For young professionals juggling busy schedules, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful go-to dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe caters perfectly to those evenings when you crave something satisfying yet require a quick fix.
What makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta a go-to dish for young professionals?
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness. With minimal prep and cook time, it seamlessly fits into a hectic lifestyle while delivering maximum flavor. Picture juicy, pan-fried chicken enveloped in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, harmoniously tossed with linguine. This dish not only appeals to your taste buds but also provides essential nutrition, making it an excellent choice after a long day.
Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable! Whether you're looking to spice things up with turkey bacon or enhance your veggie intake with peas or spinach, the options are endless. For more inspiration, check out this guide on meal prepping to save even more time.
So roll up your sleeves and dive into this deliciously comforting dish that is sure to become a staple in your weeknight repertoire!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Essential ingredients for a creamy delight
Creating a delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta revolves around some key ingredients that guarantee a creamy and flavorful experience. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken: Start with three chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces, providing those juicy morsels of protein that make the dish satisfying.
- Pasta: Linguine is your best friend here, serving as the perfect base for the sauce.
- Cream: Heavy or double cream adds the luscious texture, ensuring every bite is rich and mouthwatering.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese brings that deliciously nutty flavor, elevating your pasta to gourmet heights.
Must-have pantry staples
Don't forget about the essentials that might already be in your kitchen! These pantry staples will enhance your dish while keeping it straightforward:
- Cornflour: A thickening agent that helps achieve that velvety sauce texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must; it’s the star that imparts a wonderful aroma.
- Broth: Chicken stock (or water with stock cubes) adds a depth of flavor.
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder are indispensable for balancing the dish.
Ready to get cooking? With these ingredients at hand, you're set for a delightful culinary adventure! For more tips on cooking with chicken, check out this helpful guide.
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Cooking a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this creamy, comforting dish. Let’s dive into each step of this easy-to-follow recipe, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Cook the Linguine
Begin your delicious culinary journey by cooking the linguine. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 300 g (10.5 oz) of the linguine. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, generally around 9-10 minutes for al dente pasta. Remember to taste a strand before draining! Once cooked, drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve about one cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will come in handy later to adjust the sauce consistency.
Prepare the Chicken
Next up, let’s prepare the chicken. Cut 3 chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 525 g (18.5 oz) total. Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle over 2 tablespoons of cornflour (or cornstarch if you're in the U.S.), along with ½ teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything together until well coated. This step is crucial to ensure the chicken remains tender and flavorful during cooking.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large frying pan, add 3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Fry for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Afterward, remove the chicken and place it in a warm bowl. In the same pan, if necessary, add a bit more oil and toss in a finely chopped small onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion starts to soften, then add 3 minced cloves of garlic along with ¼ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Cook for an additional minute, enjoying that aromatic scent fill your kitchen.
Make the Creamy Sauce
For the creamy sauce, pour in 180 ml (¾ cup) of strong chicken stock (homemade or store-bought) and 180 ml (¾ cup) of double cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while stirring and let it simmer for about 3 minutes for it to slightly thicken. Add in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and stir well. This acidity will brighten up the flavors of your sauce. Now, gradually mix in 50 g (½ cup) of finely grated parmesan cheese until it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Combine Chicken and Pasta in the Sauce
Now comes the exciting part of combining your wonderfully cooked chicken and linguine into the creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta to the pan and sprinkle the remaining parmesan atop. Using a pair of tongs, gently toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in that luscious sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of your reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Finally, stir in the cooked chicken to warm it through. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta garnished with fresh parsley, black pepper, and extra grated parmesan on top.
Now, you've created a comforting, rich dish perfect for dinner! Enjoy this hearty meal, and don’t forget to share the love with your friends and family.
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Adding Turkey Bacon for a Smoky Twist
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta experience by incorporating turkey bacon. The smoky flavor of the turkey bacon beautifully complements the creamy, garlic-infused sauce. Simply chop it into bits and sauté it until crispy before adding the chicken. Not only does this add a delightful crunch, but it also enhances the dish with a savory element that will keep your taste buds dancing!
Incorporating Veggies Like Asparagus or Spinach
For a fresh pop of color and nutrition, consider adding veggies like asparagus or spinach to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Toss in asparagus when you add the onions for a tender bite, or stir in baby spinach just before serving for a vibrant and healthy twist. Vegetables not only boost the dish’s nutritional value but also bring in delightful textures and flavors, ensuring each bowl is hearty and satisfying.
These simple variations will keep your meals exciting while allowing you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences!
Cooking notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Tips for achieving the perfect creaminess
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta has that irresistible creamy texture, use heavy cream for the sauce—the rich fats contribute significantly to its smoothness. Incorporate a little pasta water when mixing everything together; it helps to meld the sauce and adds depth. Don't rush the simmering stage—let the sauce thicken gently, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. If you're looking for a lighter option, substituting with creme fraiche can yield delicious results, but remember to heat it gently to prevent curdling.
Suggestions for ingredient substitutes
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of tasty alternatives! Swap in turkey bacon or chicken ham for a meaty twist. Want more veggies? Toss in frozen peas, chopped asparagus, or mushrooms right alongside the onions to boost nutritional value and flavors. You can even stir in some baby spinach at the end for a fresh touch. Exploring these substitutions not only diversifies your dish but can also cater to various dietary needs, so feel free to get creative!
For more delicious variations, check out these cooking tips for ingredient swaps!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ideal Pairings and Garnishes
To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider serving it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a classic touch. A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy sauce beautifully. For garnishes, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and more grated parmesan on top to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Serving it Family-Style or Plated
Whether you’re hosting company or enjoying a cozy night in, your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta can be served either way. For a casual gathering, present it family-style in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing guests to help themselves. Alternatively, for a refined touch, plate individual portions, ensuring each dish is artistically garnished. This not only showcases your culinary skills but also makes the meal feel special—like dining out at a trendy restaurant!
Time Details for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting ready for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a breeze! With just 10 minutes to chop, season, and prep your ingredients, you'll be on your way to a delicious dinner in no time.
Cooking Time
Once everything is prepped, the magic happens in the kitchen. The cooking time for this dish is about 20 minutes, where you’ll pan-fry the chicken and whip up that rich, creamy sauce.
Total Time
In just 25 minutes, you’ll create a mouthwatering meal that’s ready to serve and impress. Perfect for busy evenings when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen!
For additional cooking tips or variations on this recipe, check out this informative guide on pasta dishes for more inspiration!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Approximate Calories Per Serving
Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes in at around 766 calories. With its creamy, indulgent sauce and hearty chicken, this dish packs a satisfying punch that makes it perfect for a comforting dinner.
Breakdown of Key Macronutrients
This delicious pasta dish offers a well-balanced profile of macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 67g - The linguine provides the necessary energy to keep you fueled throughout your busy day.
- Protein: 44g - Thanks to the chicken, you'll enjoy a generous protein boost, essential for muscle recovery and growth.
- Fat: 35g - The creamy sauce contributes to a rich texture, featuring both healthy and saturated fats.
For more insights on building balanced meals, check out resources from the American Heart Association for tips on healthy eating habits. Additionally, understanding how to customize your nutrition can further enhance your dishes; explore articles from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for expert advice.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! While Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead by cooling it down, covering it, and refrigerating for up to two days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 3-4 minutes. Just stir occasionally and consider adding a splash of water or cream to restore that creamy texture.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
No worries! If you find yourself out of fresh garlic, garlic powder serves as a convenient substitute. Generally, a teaspoon of garlic powder equates to about one clove of fresh garlic. You could also experiment with other flavor-packed ingredients, like shallots or even onion powder, to maintain that savory depth in your dish.
How can I modify the recipe to cater to dietary restrictions?
Flexible and accommodating, this recipe can be tailored for various diets. For a gluten-free option, just swap the linguine with a gluten-free pasta. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with low-fat alternatives such as Greek yogurt or plant-based cream. Plus, feel free to add more veggies like spinach or asparagus to boost the nutritional value! For more ingredient ideas, check out resources like Healthline.
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
In summary, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of flavor and comfort. This easy-to-make recipe is not only satisfying but can also be customized to your liking. Serve up this creamy, garlicky goodness for a weeknight dinner that impresses!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- Frying pan
- pot
- Tongs
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 300 g linguine
- 3 pieces chicken breasts, chopped into bitesize pieces This is about 525g or 18.5oz
- 2 tablespoon cornflour cornstarch in US
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoon oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion, peeled and chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 180 ml strong chicken stock water plus 2 stock cubes is fine
- 180 ml double (heavy) cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice juice from approx. half a lemon
- 50 g finely grated parmesan cheese
To Serve
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- black pepper
- grated parmesan
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta as per the pack instructions, then drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Whilst the pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle over the cornflour, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Toss together to coat.
- Add the oil to a large frying pan and heat over a medium heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked throughout.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place in a warm bowl.
- There should still be a little oil in the pan, if not, add a little splash more along with the chopped onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are just starting to soften.
- Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the stock and cream and bring to the boil. Simmer gently for 3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the lemon juice.
- By now your pasta should be ready. Add the pasta to the pan, then sprinkle over the parmesan.
- Use a set of tongs to lift and drop the pasta in the sauce, until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- If you would like to loosen up the sauce a little, add in splashes of the reserved pasta water, until the sauce consistency is to your liking.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir through. Heat for a further minute to ensure the chicken is hot, then turn off the heat.
- Divide between bowls and top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkling of black pepper and grated parmesan.
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