The aroma of creamy garlic chicken pasta wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Picture a plate brimming with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious sauce that invites you to dive right in.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, creamy garlic chicken pasta is the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, sparking joy and laughter around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic chicken pasta is straightforward to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting dish that pleases even picky eaters
- It looks gorgeous on any plate, thanks to its creamy texture and vibrant colors
- This recipe is versatile enough to adapt with seasonal vegetables or proteins you have on hand
One time, I made this creamy garlic chicken pasta for a dinner party, and my friends insisted on licking their plates clean. Who knew pasta could make people so enthusiastic?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
Pasta: I prefer fettuccine for its delightful ability to hold onto the sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves; their aromatic punch elevates the entire dish.
Heavy Cream: This adds the signature creaminess; don’t skimp on it for best results!
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for maximum flavor; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for richness and depth in flavor when cooking the chicken.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle adds color and freshness at the end—totally Instagram-worthy!
Salt & Pepper: Always essential for seasoning; taste as you go for perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Chop the garlic finely and set it aside while you bring water to boil for the pasta.
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add your fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water for later.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Cook chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Add Garlic & Cream: Toss in minced garlic once chicken is done cooking. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine.
Incorporate Pasta & Cheese: Add your drained fettuccine directly into the skillet. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything while stirring gently until it becomes creamy and coats every noodle.
Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving to brighten up your presentation!
Now you’re ready to impress your family or friends with this mouthwatering creamy garlic chicken pasta! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in your culinary triumph—it truly is an experience worth savoring!
You Must Know
- The key to a creamy garlic chicken pasta lies in balancing the sauce’s richness with a touch of acidity, like lemon juice
- This recipe shines with fresh ingredients, making it a delightful dish that looks as good as it tastes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first, allowing it to develop a golden crust. Cook the pasta while preparing the sauce to streamline your cooking process and ensure everything is ready at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Experimenting with herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked pasta, remember to salt your boiling water generously; it should taste like the sea
- Always let chicken rest before slicing for juicier pieces
- Adding cheese at the end enhances creaminess without clumping
Cooking this creamy garlic chicken pasta always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we devoured plate after plate, everyone asking for seconds.
FAQ
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or make a cashew cream for a lighter option.
Can I make creamy garlic chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it earlier but reheat gently to maintain texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap chicken for mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
Creamy garlic chicken pasta is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente fettuccine, and a rich garlic-infused cream sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe not only satisfies the appetite but also brings joy to the table with its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation. Easy to prepare and versatile, you can customize it with seasonal vegetables or alternate proteins, making it a go-to favorite for any occasion.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping garlic and bringing a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Cook fettuccine in boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes), then drain, reserving some pasta water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and no longer pink inside.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
- Add drained fettuccine and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy and well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 585
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
