“Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta consistently delivers a memorable dining experience. Its ability to accommodate various schedules through different cooking methods, from stovetop to crockpot cooking.“
The classic combination of garlic parmesan chicken and pasta creates a soul-warming meal perfect for any occasion. This beloved dish features tender chicken breast pieces swimming in a rich creamy sauce, seasoned with aromatic Italian seasoning and paprika. The sauce, made with heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese, coats every strand of al-dente pasta perfectly.
Additionally, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and herbaceous notes that enhance the overall flavor profile. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, al dente noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce into one irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Moreover, this comfort food favorite satisfies both sophisticated palates and picky eaters alike. The dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the velvety sauce, while a side of roasted vegetables or fresh spinach adds nutritional balance to the meal.
One-Pan Dinner: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe
Recipe:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat avocado oil in a large stainless steel pan over medium heat
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Cook chicken until golden brown, remove from pan
- Sauté yellow onion and garlic in unsalted butter
- Add chicken broth and penne pasta, cook until al dente
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese
- Return chicken to pan
- Garnish with fresh parsley
How to Make a 30-Minute Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
This 30-minute meal transforms weeknight dinner into a restaurant-quality experience. Start by seasoning chicken breast with a blend of Italian seasoning and paprika. While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta to al-dente perfection. The garlic parmesan sauce comes together quickly by combining heavy cream, chicken broth, and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Furthermore, the key to this quick recipe lies in proper timing and having all ingredients prepped before starting. The yellow onion and garlic should be chopped and ready to go, making the cooking process smooth and efficient. Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or a busy weekday dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta comes together in just 30 minutes while tasting like it simmered all day.
Restaurant-Worthy Garlic Parmesan Chicken at Home
Creating restaurant-worthy garlic parmesan chicken requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Begin with high-quality chicken breast, preferably organic, and season generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The sauce starts with a base of yellow onion and fresh garlic sautéed in unsalted butter and avocado oil, creating deep flavor layers.
The secret to achieving restaurant-quality results lies in properly reducing the heavy cream and allowing the parmesan cheese to slowly melt into the sauce. Additionally, finishing the dish with fresh parsley and serving it alongside crusty bread elevates the dining experience to match any upscale Italian restaurant.
Penne Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
The perfect penne pasta in garlic parmesan sauce starts with properly cooked pasta. Boil the pasta in well-salted water until it reaches the ideal al-dente texture. The creamy sauce begins with a foundation of sautéed garlic and yellow onion in olive oil and unsalted butter.
Next, add chicken broth to create depth, followed by heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon before tossing with the pasta. For extra richness, reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
Weeknight Dinner Made Easy: One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
This one-pan dinner simplifies cleanup while maximizing flavor. The chicken breast and pasta cook in the same pan, allowing the pasta to absorb the savory flavors of the chicken broth and seasonings. Start by browning the chicken seasoned with Italian seasoning and paprika in avocado oil.
After removing the chicken, the pasta cooks directly in the same pan with chicken broth, absorbing all the flavorful bits left behind. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese create a luscious sauce that brings everything together.
Transform your dinner routine with this one-pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, where every strand of pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce made with fresh garlic and Italian seasonings. This method makes an impressive weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
The Secret to Tender Chicken in a Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Achieving perfectly tender chicken in garlic parmesan sauce requires proper technique. First, pound the chicken breast to even thickness, then season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in a combination of avocado oil and unsalted butter over medium heat to prevent toughening.
The creamy sauce helps maintain moisture, especially when the chicken is returned to simmer briefly in the mixture of heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices.
Dairy-Free Options for Your Favorite Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dish
The dairy-free option for this beloved dish maintains the creamy texture and rich flavor without traditional dairy products. Replace heavy cream with cashew cream or coconut cream, and substitute parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan alternatives. The garlic and Italian seasoning become even more prominent in this version.
Use additional chicken broth to create depth of flavor, and consider adding pureed cauliflower to achieve the desired sauce consistency. The yellow onion and extra garlic help build a flavorful base that makes the dairy-free version equally satisfying.
Gluten-Free Garlic Parmesan Pasta: A Twist on the Classic
Creating a gluten-free option of this favorite dish requires minimal adjustments. Replace traditional penne pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta, ensuring you cook it according to package instructions to achieve the perfect al-dente texture. The creamy sauce remains unchanged, featuring the classic combination of heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic.
The chicken breast preparation stays the same, using Italian seasoning, paprika, and a combination of avocado oil and unsalted butter for cooking. The sauce may need slight adjustments in thickness, as gluten-free pasta sometimes releases different amounts of starch.
Why Chicken Broth is the Key to Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Chicken broth serves as the foundation for developing deep flavor in this pasta dish. It adds richness to the creamy sauce while providing necessary liquid to cook the pasta to perfect al-dente texture. The broth also helps create a sauce that perfectly coats the penne pasta and chicken breast.
“When combined with sautéed yellow onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning, the chicken broth creates layers of flavor that store-bought sauce cannot match.”
The broth also helps thin out the heavy cream and parmesan cheese mixture to achieve the ideal sauce consistency.
Special Day’s Comfort Food: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Planning a romantic dinner starts with this luxurious garlic parmesan chicken and pasta dish. The creamy sauce, enriched with heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese, creates an indulgent base for perfectly cooked chicken breast. The aromatic combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and yellow onion fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma that sets the mood for a special evening.
For a complete Anniversary Day menu, pair this comfort food with a crisp side salad and warm crusty bread. The roasted veggies add color and nutrition to the plate, making it both beautiful and satisfying. Fresh parsley garnish adds an elegant touch to the presentation.
Consider preparing extra portions, as the flavors develop beautifully in leftovers. The rich flavor of the sauce intensifies overnight, making next-day lunch equally special. This dish proves that simple ingredients can create memorable dining experiences.
Pairing Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Crusty Bread and Side Salads
The perfect accompaniment to garlic parmesan chicken and pasta starts with warm crusty bread for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce. Toast thick slices of artisan bread brushed with olive oil and rubbed with fresh garlic for an elevated touch. This simple addition transforms the meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
A fresh side salad featuring baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan cheese adds brightness and balance to the rich main course. Dress the salad lightly with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the garlic parmesan sauce without overpowering it.
Roasted vegetables seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper provide another excellent side option. Consider roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus in avocado oil until caramelized for added depth to the meal.
Simple Ingredients, Restaurant-Worthy Taste: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Creating restaurant-worthy garlic parmesan chicken relies on quality simple ingredients and proper technique. Start with fresh boneless skinless chicken breast, pounded evenly and seasoned generously with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. The initial sear in a hot stainless steel pan with avocado oil creates a golden crust that seals in moisture.
“The foundation of the creamy sauce begins with sautéed yellow onion and garlic in unsalted butter. Adding chicken broth deglazes the pan, incorporating all the flavorful bits into the sauce. The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese creates a silky smooth texture that clings perfectly to al-dente pasta.”
The secret to making restaurant-quality Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta lies in properly reducing the sauce and allowing the cheese to slowly melt into the cream. While, fresh parsley not only adds color but brings a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the sauce. This one-pan dinner proves that home-cooked meals can rival restaurant quality with the right ingredients and preparation.
How to Get Perfectly Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce Every Time
The secret to a perfect creamy sauce begins with properly sautéed yellow onion and garlic in unsalted butter. Cook them until translucent but not browned to create a sweet, aromatic base. Adding chicken broth and allowing it to reduce concentrates the flavors before introducing the heavy cream.
“Temperature control plays a crucial role when adding parmesan cheese. Remove the pan from high heat and slowly incorporate the cheese while stirring constantly to prevent graininess. This technique ensures a smooth, silky garlic parmesan sauce that coats your penne pasta perfectly.”
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still flow smoothly. If needed, thin the sauce with reserved chicken broth or thicken it by adding more freshly grated parmesan cheese. This versatile sauce works beautifully with both pasta and chicken breast, creating a harmonious one-pan dinner.
Remember to season gradually with salt and pepper, as parmesan cheese adds its own saltiness to the dish. Fresh parsley stirred in at the end adds both color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce. However, creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta starts with quality ingredients and proper timing to ensure the chicken stays tender and the sauce remains silky smooth.
Easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for Busy Weeknights
Transform this chicken pasta dish into an effortless slow cooker meal with this crockpot recipe. Place boneless skinless chicken breast seasoned with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in the bottom of your crockpot. Top with yellow onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
Recipe:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 pound penne pasta
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for crockpot cooking:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
- Remove chicken and shred
- Cook pasta separately until al-dente
- During the last 30 minutes, stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese
- Add cooked pasta and shredded chicken back to the pot
- Garnish with fresh parsley
This easy weeknight dinner offers the same rich flavor as the stovetop version but with the convenience of crockpot cooking. The slow cooking process develops deep garlic parmesan flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You can also watch this easy Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – EASY Dinner Recipe or watch below:
Italian Seasoning and Paprika: The Flavors Behind Perfect Garlic Chicken
The perfect garlic parmesan chicken pasta starts with a balanced blend of Italian seasoning and paprika. This signature combination adds depth to the chicken breast while complementing the garlic parmesan flavor. The Italian seasoning brings a blend of dried herbs including basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, creating layers of Mediterranean flavors that enhance the overall dish.
Adding paprika not only contributes a beautiful color but also provides a subtle sweet and peppery note. When combined with salt and pepper, these seasonings create a crust on the chicken that seals in moisture during cooking. This seasoning blend works particularly well in a hot stainless steel pan, where it forms a flavorful foundation for the creamy sauce.
For the best results, season the boneless skinless chicken breast generously and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This time allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken that maintains its seasoning even after being coated in the rich flavor of the garlic parmesan sauce.
The Best One-Pan Chicken Pasta Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
This one-pan dinner combines tender chicken and al-dente pasta in a single stainless steel pan, making it the ultimate comfort food. The chicken breast, seasoned with Italian seasoning and paprika, cooks first in avocado oil until golden brown. The same pan then becomes the vessel for building a luxurious creamy sauce.
The garlic parmesan chicken pasta cooking method in this quick recipe differs from traditional boiling. The penne pasta cooks directly in chicken broth, absorbing all the flavors from the seared chicken and sautéed yellow onion and garlic. As the pasta cooks, it releases its starches, naturally thickening the sauce.
Finally, heavy cream and parmesan cheese transform the dish into a rich, creamy texture worthy of any romantic dinner. Fresh parsley adds brightness and color to this satisfying meal. This method creates fewer dishes while maximizing flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.
Avocado Oil vs. Olive Oil: Which Works Best for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta?
Both avocado oil and olive oil bring unique benefits to garlic parmesan chicken pasta. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for searing chicken breast at higher temperatures in a stainless steel pan. This results in a better golden crust while maintaining the chicken’s moisture.
Olive oil, especially extra virgin, adds its own distinct flavor that complements the Italian seasoning and garlic. It works exceptionally well for sautéing yellow onion and creating the base of the creamy sauce. Some cooks prefer to use a combination of both oils, starting with avocado oil for searing and finishing with a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.
For the best of both worlds, use avocado oil for high-heat cooking and reserve quality olive oil for finishing the dish or preparing side dishes like roasted vegetables or crusty bread. This approach maximizes the benefits of each oil while ensuring the best possible outcome for your garlic parmesan sauce.
Cooking with Heavy Cream: The Secret to Rich Garlic Parmesan Sauce
The foundation of a luxurious garlic parmesan sauce lies in properly incorporating heavy cream. Begin by sautéing yellow onion and garlic in unsalted butter until fragrant. Add chicken broth and reduce it slightly before introducing the heavy cream. This reduction concentrates the flavors and ensures a perfectly thick sauce.
Temperature control plays a crucial role when working with heavy cream. Add it to the pan over medium heat, never allowing it to boil aggressively. This gentle approach prevents the cream from breaking and ensures a silky creamy texture. Once the cream is warm, gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
This rich flavor base transforms ordinary penne pasta into a restaurant-worthy dish. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon while remaining fluid enough to thoroughly coat the pasta and chicken breast. For those seeking a lighter option, the recipe can be adapted into a dairy-free option using cashew cream, though the traditional heavy cream version remains a favorite for comfort food enthusiasts.
Fresh Parsley Garnish for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Presentation
Fresh parsley adds more than just visual appeal to garlic parmesan chicken and pasta. This vibrant herb brings a fresh, peppery note that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce. When chopped finely and sprinkled over the finished dish, it transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an elegant romantic dinner presentation.
Beyond garnish, parsley can be incorporated throughout the cooking process. Add some chopped stems while sautéing yellow onion and garlic in unsalted butter to infuse the garlic parmesan sauce with subtle herbaceous notes. Reserve the tender leaves for finishing the dish, ensuring both flavor and visual impact.
The bright green specks of parsley create beautiful contrast against the creamy white sauce and golden-brown chicken breast. This simple addition makes the dish especially appealing when served alongside roasted veggies or a side salad. For the best results, always use fresh parsley rather than dried, as it provides both better flavor and appearance.
How to Cook Penne Pasta in Chicken Broth for Enhanced Flavor
The pasta cooking method dramatically improves when using chicken broth instead of water. Penne pasta absorbs the rich flavor of the broth while cooking to al-dente perfection. This technique works especially well in one-pan dinner recipes, where the pasta cooks directly in the sauce-making liquid.
Begin by bringing chicken broth to a gentle boil in a stainless steel pan. Add the penne pasta and cook until it reaches the ideal al-dente texture, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The starch released from the pasta naturally thickens the cooking liquid, creating a base for the creamy sauce.
For those choosing a gluten-free option, this method works equally well with gluten-free pasta. The chicken broth adds depth to the final dish while masking any alternative flour flavors. Additionally, the broth-cooking technique makes excellent leftovers as the pasta continues to absorb flavor even after reheating.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta with Roasted Veggies
The versatility of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta makes it easy to customize with additional vegetables or adapt for different dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Transform your garlic parmesan chicken into a complete meal by adding perfectly roasted veggies.
Start by tossing seasonal vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Roast them until caramelized while preparing the main chicken pasta dish.
The roasted vegetables add color, nutrition, and texture to the creamy comfort food. Consider adding brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers for variety. Fresh spinach can also be wilted into the creamy sauce just before serving, adding nutrients and color to this restaurant-worthy dish.
A bed of roasted veggies makes this weeknight dinner more substantial and balanced. The vegetables also pair beautifully with the garlic parmesan sauce, soaking up the rich flavors and making each bite more interesting. Serve with crusty bread to complete this easy recipe.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tips for Perfect Texture
Achieving perfectly tender chicken starts with proper preparation of boneless skinless chicken breast. Begin by bringing the chicken to room temperature and patting it dry before seasoning with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This ensures even cooking and better seasoning absorption.
Heat avocado oil in a stainless steel pan until shimmering. Place the seasoned chicken breast in the pan and resist moving it until a golden crust forms. This initial sear locks in moisture and creates the foundation for the garlic parmesan flavor. Add unsalted butter to baste the chicken while cooking.
The key to maintaining tenderness lies in not overcooking. Remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and let it rest before slicing. This technique ensures juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and becomes the star of your one-pan dinner.
From Slow Cooker to Stove: Adapting the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Converting this chicken pasta dish from a crockpot recipe to stovetop requires simple adjustments. While slow cooker meal preparation focuses on low-and-slow cooking, the stovetop version of this garlic parmesan chicken becomes a quick 30-minute meal.
For stovetop cooking, start by sautéing yellow onion and garlic cloves in avocado oil and unsalted butter. Add chicken broth to create the base for your garlic parmesan sauce. The heavy cream and parmesan cheese incorporate more quickly on the stovetop compared to crockpot cooking.
Both methods produce excellent results, making this easy weeknight dinner versatile for any schedule. For busy families looking for a crowd-pleasing meal, this slow-cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta offers all the flavor with minimal hands-on cooking time.
Hence, the stovetop version offers more control over the creamy texture, while the slow cooker meal provides hands-off convenience. Each method maintains the dish’s rich flavor and satisfying qualities.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken: A Creamy, Easy, and Delicious Family Favorite
This garlic parmesan chicken recipe combines simple ingredients to create a restaurant-worthy meal perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinner to family weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and parmesan cheese, transforms basic penne pasta into an extraordinary dish.
The versatility of this recipe accommodates various dietary needs, offering both dairy-free option and gluten-free option variations. The base recipe easily adapts to include roasted veggies, fresh spinach, or can be served alongside a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Fresh parsley garnish adds the finishing touch to this comfort food favorite. The recipe works equally well as a quick recipe for busy nights or a slower-paced romantic dinner. The garlic parmesan sauce creates a rich flavor. Leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and meld together overnight.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta stands as a testament to the perfect combination of simple ingredients and culinary technique. This versatile dish transforms basic chicken breast and penne pasta into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece through the careful blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, and fresh garlic. The magic begins in a stainless steel pan where avocado oil and unsalted butter create the foundation for perfectly tender chicken and builds into a luxurious creamy sauce enriched with heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
The recipe’s adaptability shines through its various cooking methods, from a quick 30-minute meal to a hands-off slow cooker meal. Whether prepared as a one-pan dinner for busy weeknight dinner solutions or elevated for a romantic dinner with the addition of roasted veggies and crusty bread, the dish maintains its rich flavor and satisfying qualities. The versatility extends to dietary preferences, offering both gluten-free option and dairy-free option variations without compromising the signature garlic parmesan flavor.
The cooking process itself becomes a culinary journey, starting with properly seasoned boneless skinless chicken breast, incorporating aromatic yellow onion and garlic cloves, and building layers of flavor with chicken broth. The pasta cooking method ensures perfect al-dente texture, while fresh parsley adds the finishing touch that elevates this comfort food to restaurant-worthy status. The resulting creamy texture and depth of flavor make excellent leftovers, proving that quality ingredients and proper technique create meals that continue to satisfy.
From family gatherings to intimate dinners, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta consistently delivers a memorable dining experience. Its ability to accommodate various schedules through different cooking methods, from stovetop to crockpot cooking, makes it an invaluable addition to any cook’s repertoire. While there are many pasta dishes to choose from, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta remains a favorite comfort food that consistently delivers on both flavor and satisfaction.
The dish exemplifies how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results, whether served alongside roasted vegetables, fresh spinach, or a crisp side salad. This timeless recipe continues to earn its place as a beloved comfort food that brings people together around the table, proving that the best meals combine simplicity, flavor, and versatility in perfect harmony.
Furthermore, If you want more comfort food recipes then I highly recommend this delectable home cooking recipe Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi: Comforting Culinary Adventure. Which you would definitely love. Also check out this delicious breakfast dessert Angular Banana Bread: Bake Up Delight that You Won’t Miss
Citations
- “Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe”, https://munchinwithmaddie.blog/garlic-parmesan-chicken-and-pasta/
- “Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe”, https://therecipecritic.com/crockpot-parmesan-garlic-chicken-pasta/
- “Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Stove Top Recipe”, https://badbatchbaking.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta/
- “Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Without Cream Cheese”, https://www.healthyeatingonabudget.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-without-cream-cheese
- “Buffalo Wild Wings Copycat Recipe”, https://www.food.com/recipe/buffalo-wild-wings-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-456123
- “Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake”, https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-bake/
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