Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Savor the creamy, garlicky goodness of Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. This gluten-free dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta coated in a rich garlic and parmesan sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for all. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a lovely recipe to keep in your culinary rotation.
This dish is a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing the richness of garlic and the creaminess of parmesan. Perfect for busy weekdays!
A Flavorful Comfort Food
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the quintessential comfort food. The creamy garlic sauce provides a rich, velvety texture that clings to each piece of gluten-free pasta, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. This dish is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying, making it a fantastic choice for both busy weeknights and cozy gatherings with family and friends.
The combination of tender, diced chicken and the robust garlic and parmesan sauce elevates the dish, bringing a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This pasta dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household, enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
Gluten-Free Deliciousness
Finding gluten-free recipes that don’t compromise on taste can be a challenge. Fortunately, this Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta does just that. By using gluten-free pasta, those with dietary restrictions can still indulge in a classic dish without feeling left out.
As more people seek gluten-free alternatives, this recipe stands out by delivering an authentic pasta experience. Thanks to the combination of high-quality ingredients and careful preparation, you won’t miss the gluten at all. Your friends and family won’t be able to tell the difference!
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is its versatility. While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can easily swap in other proteins like shrimp or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. This adaptability allows you to cater the dish to your dietary preferences while keeping the delicious flavors intact.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices as well. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant heat, while fresh basil or oregano can provide a fragrant touch. This dish invites creativity, making it simple to make it your own while preserving its core deliciousness.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz gluten-free pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Enjoy this delicious pasta dish with a side salad for an extra touch!
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure perfect pasta, always boil the gluten-free noodles until they are just al dente. Overcooking can easily lead to a mushy texture, which can detract from the overall experience. Remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce, so slightly undercooking is often better.
When incorporating the heavy cream into the sauce, make sure to stir continuously as it heats up. This will help prevent the cream from curdling and ensure a smooth sauce. Additionally, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to add a splash of milk or extra cream to keep the sauce from becoming too thick. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to bring moisture back into the dish.
This recipe also freezes remarkably well. After cooking, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy this dish again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.
Nutritional Benefits
Aside from being a delightful comfort food, Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta offers nutritional benefits that shouldn't be overlooked. The dish is a good source of protein from the chicken, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Furthermore, garlic has been known for its potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system and providing heart health advantages.
Using heavy cream and Parmesan cheese adds satisfying fats, which can help keep you feeling full longer. If you want to elevate the nutritional profile even further, consider adding spinach, broccoli, or other vegetables to the mix. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds extra vitamins and minerals to your meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular pasta can be used if gluten is not a concern.
→ How can I make this dish lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Savor the creamy, garlicky goodness of Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering. This gluten-free dish features tender chicken and al dente pasta coated in a rich garlic and parmesan sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for all. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a lovely recipe to keep in your culinary rotation.
Created by: Piper Andrews
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 8 oz gluten-free pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked chicken and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 25g