Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to a cozy Italian trattoria – Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta. This recipe is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, aromatic garlic, and a luxurious cream sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta. With a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley to brighten things up, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting and sophisticated.

In under 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-worthy meal using everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The magic happens when the chicken is sautéed to perfection, mingling with shallots, garlic, and Italian seasoning before being swirled in a velvety sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan. The touch of white wine adds a depth of flavor that truly elevates this dish into a culinary masterpiece.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special meal, Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta fits the bill. Make it your own by choosing your favorite pasta shape, experimenting with different proteins, or even opting for a vegetarian twist. And don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of crisp white wine to complement the richness of the dish – because good food is meant to be enjoyed with good company and great flavors.

Quick Benefits

• Creates a silky sauce without complicated techniques
• Versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
• Perfectly balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fat in one dish
• Ready in less than 30 minutes for busy weeknights

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe Recipe

• Effortlessly Elegant: Impress your guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal without the hassle.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples for a sophisticated dish.
• Versatile: Suitable for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
• Balanced Meal: A complete dish with protein, carbs, and fats in one creamy, garlic-infused pasta.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat beautifully for next-day lunches.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe based on ingredients you have on hand or dietary preferences.
• Secret Ingredient: Discover the importance of using dry white wine for a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Pairing Perfection: Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine for a harmonious dining experience.
• Helpful Tips: From browning the chicken to choosing the right pasta shape, the recipe provides expert guidance for success.

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

Main Ingredients

• ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan, grated
• ⅓ cup (75 ml) dry white wine
• 1 cup (200 ml) heavy cream (double cream)
• ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium shallot, finely diced
• 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta
• 1 tablespoon (20 g) unsalted butter
• A handful fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pro Tips for Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To achieve a perfectly balanced sauce, use a dry white wine for deglazing that adds acidity to cut through the richness of the cream. This simple addition enhances the depth of flavor in the dish and elevates its restaurant-quality taste.

Pro Tip 2: For a time-saving weeknight meal, prep all your ingredients before you start cooking. This includes mincing garlic, dicing shallots, and cutting the chicken into even pieces. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and ensure you can enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta in less than 30 minutes.

Pro Tip 3: If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, swap the chicken for mushrooms and enhance the flavor profile with extra garlic and a pinch of smoked paprika. This substitution maintains the richness and depth of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

How to Make Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta following package instructions. Save 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Step 02

In a large pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil and melt butter. Add chicken breast and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 3: Step 03

Add shallot and cook for 1 minute, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 4: Step 04

Mix in the Italian seasoning, deglaze the pan with dry white wine, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol cooks off.

Step 5: Step 05

Mix in the heavy cream and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Combine with the cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.

Step 6: Step 06

Mix in grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve right away.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the creamy garlic chicken pasta, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the dish over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce as it thickens when chilled. Enjoy the pasta within the first two days for the best texture and flavor.

If you find yourself without heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, a combination of milk and cream cheese, plain yogurt, or coconut cream for a similar creamy consistency. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand, as different types of pasta will work well with the luscious cream sauce and chicken. Remember to reserve more pasta water than you think you need, as the sauce continues to thicken over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some substitutions for this creamy garlic chicken pasta, there are a few options available. For the heavy cream, you can try using half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter alternative, plain yogurt or coconut cream can also work well in the sauce.

If you need to swap out the chicken breast, chicken thighs can be a flavorful and moist replacement. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, mushrooms can be a great substitute for the chicken, just be sure to add extra garlic and perhaps a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth of flavor. You can also opt for gluten-free pasta if needed, but remember to reserve extra pasta water as gluten-free varieties often require more moisture when combining with the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy garlic chicken pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with additional freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette to round out the meal. For a cozy dinner setting, light some candles and enjoy this comforting dish with a glass of your favorite white wine.

To elevate the presentation of this creamy garlic chicken pasta, consider topping each serving with a few crispy pieces of pancetta or bacon for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms into the dish for extra layers of taste. Serve alongside a slice of warm focaccia bread and a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the dining experience.

FAQs for Garlic Chicken Pasta: Creamy and Delicious Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand. Long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine work well, but short shapes like penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce beautifully.

Can I substitute heavy cream with a different ingredient?

If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy effect. For a lighter version, plain yogurt or coconut cream can work too.

How should I store and reheat leftovers of this creamy garlic chicken pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Can I omit the white wine in this recipe?

Yes, you can skip the wine and use chicken broth or lemon juice as a substitute for deglazing and adding flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe is a true weeknight hero, offering a gourmet dining experience in the comfort of your own home. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the quick preparation time make it a go-to option for busy evenings or unexpected guests. The delicate balance of flavors and textures in this dish will surely leave you craving more, making it a staple on your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a versatile and forgiving recipe that allows for personalization and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to make it your own with ingredient substitutions or additions to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delectable pasta, and savor every creamy, garlicky bite. Your taste buds will thank you for indulging in this delightful and satisfying meal.