Name: Easy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp dried shallots; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour; 3 cups heavy cream

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms weeknight dinners into something truly special. Who can resist the allure of tender, pan-seared chicken bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta and generously sprinkled with salty, nutty Parmesan cheese? It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles to faces and prompts second servings. What elevates this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta from good to unforgettable is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The subtle sweetness of sautéed garlic, the richness of the Parmesan, and the satisfying chew of the pasta create a symphony that dances on your palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be approachable, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to for a delicious and satisfying experience.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp dried shallots
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
3 cups heavy cream

Cooking the Chicken

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Begin extract by ensuring your Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast is cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This helps with even cooking. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together thoroughly, making sure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the seasonings. This initial seasoning is crucial for building the foundational flavor of our Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other components, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it sears properly instead of steaming. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The searing process creates delicious browned bits at the bottom of the pan, which will add immense flavor to our sauce later. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Crafting the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Build the Roux

Reduce the heat in the same skillet to medium. Add the 4 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once the butter has melted, add the dried shallots and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Next, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of gluten-free 1:1 flour and the 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth paste, known as a roux. This roux will be the thickening agent for our sauce.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Creaminess

Gradually pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth while whisking constantly. This process is called deglazing, and it helps to loosen up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan from searing the chicken, incorporating all that wonderful flavor into the sauce. Continue whisking until the broth is fully incorporated and the mixture starts to thicken slightly. Now, slowly pour in the 3 cups of heavy cream, again whisking continuously. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be rich and velvety.

gin extract>Bringing it All Together

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness, return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the chicken is well-coated in the creamy sauce. At this point, you can add freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not listed as an ingredient, but highly recommended for a true Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta experience!) and stir until melted and incorporated, if desired. If you’re cooking the gluten-free farfalle pasta separately according to package directions, drain it well and add it directly to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss gently to combine all the elements. Allow the pasta to heat through in the sauce for a minute or two. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or more Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! You’ve successfully created a delicious and satisfying batch of Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and salty parmesan cheese come together in a harmonious symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t be afraid to make this your own; the beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability!

For serving, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a fantastic accompaniment, cutting through the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is, of course, a classic partner, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and a pop of color.

When it comes to variations, the possibilities are endless! You could swap out the chicken for shrimp or even add some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy dimension. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick of heat, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the whole dish. Experiment and find your perfect combination!

I truly hope you enjoy making and devouring this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta as much as I do. Happy cooking!

FAQs:

What kind of chicken should I use for the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Both will work wonderfully, offering slightly different textures. Chicken breasts tend to be leaner, while thighs offer a richer, more tender bite. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I make the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?

While the sauce and cooked chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving. Reheating pasta can sometimes result in a less desirable texture. You can gently reheat the sauce and chicken together and then toss with freshly cooked pasta.

I don’t have fresh garlic. Can I use garlic powder for the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic, but the flavor will be different. For every clove of fresh garlic, use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add the garlic powder towards the end of cooking the sauce to prevent it from burning and becoming bitter.