Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Loaded with tender chicken, rich garlic flavor, and a luscious parmesan cheese sauce, this dish comes together with pantry staples and satisfies the whole family. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.

ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
• Fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring frequently. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce thickens slightly.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until coated in sauce.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

serving and storage tips

serving tips

• Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot and fresh right after tossing the pasta with the sauce for the creamiest texture.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, extra grated parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
• Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• For a touch of elegance, serve in warmed pasta bowls and sprinkle with black pepper or chili flakes.

storage tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• If microwaving, reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to maintain even texture.
• This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating.
• To prep ahead, cook pasta and chicken separately and store the sauce in a jar; combine just before serving for the freshest result.

variations

1. add vegetables
Incorporate sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition, color, and texture. Stir them in right before combining the pasta and sauce.

2. use rotisserie chicken
Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it directly to the sauce to warm through before mixing with pasta.

3. make it spicy
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning to give the dish a bold kick.

4. cream cheese twist
Add 2–4 oz of cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess and a slight tang. Let it melt fully before mixing in pasta.

5. swap the protein
Try shrimp, cooked Italian sausage, or even grilled turkey instead of chicken for a delicious twist.

6. gluten-free option
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (especially cheese and seasonings) are gluten-free.

7. lemon garlic version
Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a fresh, zesty finish.

8. baked garlic parmesan pasta
Transfer the finished pasta into a baking dish, top with mozzarella or breadcrumbs, and broil until golden and bubbly.

9. herb-infused flavor
Add fresh chopped basil, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce just before serving for aromatic depth.

10. mushroom lovers’ edition
Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy, hearty variation that complements the creamy sauce.

FAQS

1. can i use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken, add 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry while cooking.

2. what type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works well, but fettuccine or spaghetti are also great for a creamy sauce.

3. how do i prevent the sauce from curdling?
Cook the cream sauce over low to medium heat and avoid rapid boiling. Stir constantly after adding the cheese.

4. can i make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the components separately and combine before serving. Reheat the sauce gently and toss with pasta and chicken.

5. is there a low-fat version of this dish?
Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese to lighten it up.

6. can i add other seasonings?
Absolutely. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian herbs like oregano or basil can add more depth.

7. can i make this in one pot?
Yes, cook the chicken, sauce, and pasta in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to minimize cleanup.

8. can i double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just ensure you use a large enough pan and adjust the seasoning proportionally.

9. what should i do if the sauce is too thick?
Add a splash of pasta water, milk, or chicken broth to loosen it to your desired consistency.

10. can i freeze leftovers?
Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy sauce may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s both simple to make and endlessly satisfying. With its creamy garlic-parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dinner everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it as-is or customize it with vegetables, spices, or alternative proteins, this recipe offers flexibility and guaranteed comfort. Serve it fresh, store it well, and savor every bite—it’s a go-to meal for busy nights and special occasions alike.

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