Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Why Homemade Meals Matter for Young Professionals
In today's fast-paced world, young professionals often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities—work, social life, and self-care. It’s easy to fall into the trap of takeout and frozen meals, but homemade cooking has unparalleled benefits. Preparing dishes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only saves money, but it also allows you to control ingredients, ensuring healthier choices.
Cooking at home can be a delightful way to unwind after a busy day. Just imagine sautéing juicy chicken pieces infused with garlic, while your preferred pasta dances in a creamy, parmesan-laden sauce. It's not just a meal; it’s an experience that makes you feel accomplished. Plus, studies show that cooking can spark creativity and reduce stress, elements crucial for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
By dedicating a little time to whip up this delicious and satisfying dish, you'll not only feast on flavors but also strengthen your culinary skills. And with only 25 minutes from start to finish, there’s no reason not to treat yourself to a homemade dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality experience. For an effortless journey into the world of Italian-American cuisine, let's dive into this incredible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Essential ingredients for the perfect dish
Creating a flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta starts with a few key ingredients that bring out the dish's best. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Linguine: The star of this meal, 300g (10.5 oz) is the perfect pasta shape for latching onto the creamy sauce.
- Chicken breasts: About 525g (18.5 oz), chopped into bite-sized pieces, ensures each forkful is juicy and satisfying.
- Garlic and onion: These aromatics are crucial—3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 finely chopped onion will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma.
- Heavy cream and parmesan cheese: 180 ml (¾ cup) of double cream and 50g (½ cup) of finely grated parmesan make the sauce rich and indulgent.
Optional add-ins for customization
Feel free to get creative! You can easily customize your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with optional add-ins like:
- Turkey bacon or Chicken ham: For a smoky twist on flavor.
- Veggies: Stir in some frozen peas, chopped asparagus, or mushrooms when cooking the onion, or toss in some baby spinach at the end.
- Lemon juice: A splash brightens the entire dish.
With these ingredients, you're on your way to a comfort meal that's perfect for any weeknight dinner! For more inspiration, check out this recipe for creamy pasta dishes.
Preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful way to treat yourself to a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is a beautiful blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Let's dive into the essential steps to create this scrumptious pasta in no time!
Cook the pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a generous pinch of salt, as this enhances the pasta's flavor. Once the water’s bubbling away, toss in 300 g (10.5 oz) of linguine. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Remember to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water before you drain it; this will come in handy later to adjust the sauce's consistency.
Prepare the chicken
While your pasta is cooking, move on to the chicken. Chop three chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of cornflour (or cornstarch), along with ½ teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a lovely crust when you cook it.
Sauté the vegetables
Next, grab a large frying pan and heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until it’s golden and fully cooked through. Once it's done, transfer the chicken to a warm bowl and set it aside. In the same pan, toss in a chopped small onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it soften. Follow this by adding 3 minced garlic cloves, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Sauté for another minute, letting those wonderful aromas fill your kitchen.
Make the creamy garlic parmesan sauce
Now for the pièce de résistance—the sauce! Pour in 180 ml (¾ cup) of strong chicken stock along with 180 ml (¾ cup) of double (heavy) cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 3 minutes to thicken slightly. For a zesty twist, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, followed by 50 g (½ cup) of finely grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and inviting.
Combine and serve
Add your drained pasta to the sauce, sprinkling over the reserved parmesan. Toss everything together gently using tongs, ensuring each strand of pasta is luxuriously coated in that creamy garlic sauce. If it feels a bit thick, just add some of that reserved pasta water a splash at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, fold the cooked chicken back into the pan, giving it a quick stir to warm everything through.
Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta in bowls, garnished with finely chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of black pepper, and maybe a little extra parmesan if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon
If you’re looking to add a savory twist to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, try incorporating crispy turkey bacon. The salty flavor of turkey bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy garlic sauce, elevating the dish to a new level. Simply cook the turkey bacon in the same pan before preparing your chicken. Once crispy, remove it and use the drippings to sauté your onions and garlic. Finish by tossing in the crunchy bacon bits for a delightful texture contrast!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Vegetables
For a healthier spin, add a variety of colorful vegetables to your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Consider using seasonal favorites like sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or fresh spinach. Add these veggies to the pan right after softening the onions. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds wonderful flavors, making your dish visually appealing. You’ll love how the fresh veggies bring brightness and crunch to the creamy pasta, making it a guilt-free indulgence!
Explore more recipe variations and ideas here.
Cooking notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Tips for achieving the best sauce consistency
To achieve that creamy and luxurious sauce for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, it's essential to keep an eye on the heat level. Cook the sauce over medium heat and let it simmer gently — this helps it thicken without breaking. If you find the sauce too thick, simply add splashes of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, you can always adjust!
Suggestions for ingredient substitutions
If you're looking to customize your dish, consider swapping in some delicious alternatives! For a meaty twist, try adding Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham. Want some greens? Toss in frozen peas or baby spinach at the end for added color and taste. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with creme fraiche, ensuring it’s heated through gently to avoid splitting. These adjustments can make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta uniquely yours!
Serving suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Pairing with side dishes
When enjoying Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you'll want some fantastic sides to elevate the meal. Consider a light Caesar salad for a crunchy, refreshing contrast or some steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a healthy touch. A crusty garlic bread is also an enticing option to soak up that creamy sauce.
Ideal accompaniments for a complete meal
To round out your dining experience, think about serving a zesty lemon-infused water or a classic sparkling water with lime. Both options enhance the flavors of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta without overpowering your palate. You might even consider making a simple bruschetta as an appetizer to start your meal on a flavorful note.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Preparation Time
Getting ready has never been easier—set aside about 10 minutes for prepping your ingredients. Chop your chicken, measure out your spices, and have everything at hand for a smooth cooking experience.
Cooking Time
Watch the magic happen in just 20 minutes. That’s just enough time to sauté the chicken, simmer the creamy sauce, and cook your pasta to perfection!
Total Time
In a quick 25 minutes, you can serve up a delicious plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy get-together with friends!
For more detailed steps, check out the full recipe above. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Calories per Serving
Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta contains approximately 766 calories. This makes it a hearty meal option that's perfect for satisfying your hunger after a busy day.
Protein Content
With 44 grams of protein per serving, this dish packs a nutritious punch. The chicken not only enhances the flavor but also adds essential protein, making it a great choice for muscle repair and overall health.
Key Nutritional Information
Here are some other important nutrients to consider:
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fat: 35g, with 14g saturated fat
- Cholesterol: 146mg
- Sodium: 1305mg
- Fiber: 3g
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is definitely a robust meal, perfect for a filling dinner that gives energy for the days ahead. Want to know more about the health benefits of garlic? Check out this article. Remember to balance your meals throughout the day!
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead if necessary. If you do, be sure to cool it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. It should stay fresh in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for about 3-4 minutes. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream will help loosen the sauce, which tends to thicken during storage.
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s a fantastic meal prep option, perfect for those busy evenings. Remember, it stays good for about two days. For more details on food safety, check out the USDA’s food storage guidelines.
Are there ways to lighten the dish?
Absolutely! If you're looking to lighten your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, consider replacing the heavy cream with creme fraiche or using lower-fat alternatives. Adding veggies like peas, spinach, or asparagus not only boosts the fiber content but also adds a freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you're interested in adding extra protein, try using Turkey Bacon for a healthier twist!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
In wrapping up, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta not only offers a delicious comfort meal but also highlights the joy of homemade cooking. Preparing meals at home fosters creativity, nurtures health by controlling ingredients, and saves money. Enjoy yet another reason to opt for homemade goodness with this simple and quick recipe!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- large frying pan
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 300 g linguine
- 3 pieces chicken breasts chopped into bitesize pieces
- 2 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch in US)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoon oil
Sauce
- 1 small onion peeled and chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ 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 parmesan cheese finely grated
To Serve
- 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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