Name: Easy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4-6 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 chicken broth; 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour; 3 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, a weeknight warrior, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one glorious dish. Have you ever craved something that’s simultaneously comforting and sophisticated, bursting with bold flavors yet incredibly easy to whip up? That’s precisely the magic of this beloved pasta creation. People adore Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta because it hits all the right notes: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that irresistible creamy, garlicky sauce, all crowned with a generous dusting of salty Parmesan cheese. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table stop and savor each bite, bringin extractg smiles and contented sighs. What truly sets this particular version apart is the symphony of textures and tastes – the slight crisp of the chicken against the yielding pasta, the pungent punch of garlic mellowed by the rich cream, and the nutty depth of the Parmesan that ties everything together in a harmonious, unforgettable 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 chicken broth
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
3 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Preparing the Chicken

Seasoning the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. Ensure the Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast is cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This will help the chicken cook evenly and ensure that each piece is coated in the delicious sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the seasonings. This is where the flavor foundation for our Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is laid. Let the chicken sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature while you start on the pasta and sauce. This brief marinating time allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, making it even more flavorful.

Cooking the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry about any browned bits left in the pan; those are packed with flavor and will be crucial for the sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

Boiling the Pasta

While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 oz of gluten-free farfalle pasta to the boiling water. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, ensuring it’s al dente. Gluten-free pasta can sometimes overcook quickly, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of cooking. Al dente means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This magical liquid will be used later to help create a silky smooth sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Making the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Building the Sauce Base

Return the same skillet you used for the chicken to medium heat. Add the 4 tbsp of butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the dried shallots and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and softened. Be careful not to burn the shallots. Next, sprinkle the 2 tbsp of gluten-free 1:1 flour over the shallots and butter. Whisk this mixture constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux. This roux will act as a thickener for our sauce.

Simmering the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth, ensuring that you are whisking out any lumps from the roux. Let this mixture simmer for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Now, pour in the 3 cups of heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything. 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. You’re looking for a sauce that coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the 2 tsp of Italian seasoning.

Finishing the Sauce and Combining

Reduce the heat to low. Add the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed with a pinch more salt or pepper. Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken. Finally, add the drained gluten-free farfalle pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta with the sauce and chicken until everything is well combined and coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to loosen it up to your preferred consistency. Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.

Conclusion:

There you have it! This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe is a wonderfully satisfying and relatively simple dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful garlic and parmesan create a harmonious combination that’s truly delightful. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your accompaniments!

For serving, I love to pair this pasta with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding some steamed broccoli or asparagus for an extra boost of vegetables and color. As for variations, feel free to switch up the pasta shape – penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work beautifully. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

I truly hope you enjoy making and, more importantly, eating this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

FAQs:

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

While the pasta and chicken are best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, then toss with freshly cooked pasta and the warmed chicken. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. They are easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook quickly, ensuring they remain tender and juicy within the pasta dish.