Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
When it comes to weeknight dinners, Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta stands out as a definite crowd-pleaser. This one-pan recipe not only offers delightful flavors but also promises convenience, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in just about 30 minutes. But why opt for homemade meals like this one instead of grabbing fast food?
Why Choose Homemade Meals Over Fast Food?
Homemade meals offer several advantages that go beyond mere taste. For starters, cooking at home lets you control the ingredients, ensuring you use fresh, wholesome options. Unlike fast food, where you may not know what's in your meal, whipping up a plate of garlic parmesan chicken allows for healthier choices and more heartiness.
Moreover, home cooking fosters creativity. You can tweak recipes to suit your tastes, perhaps adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the garlic for that perfect zing. A study from the Journal of Nutrition found that individuals who cook at home tend to consume fewer calories, making it an excellent method for maintaining a balanced diet.
Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about preparing a meal from scratch. It turns a busy evening into an opportunity to unwind, enjoy family time, or catch up with friends—all over the smell of savory garlic and buttery parmesan. So, get ready to dive into this delicious adventure that is sure to bring warmth and joy to your dining table!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Essentials for the Chicken
To achieve that succulent flavor and tender texture in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta, you'll need:
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil for cooking.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast—make sure to butterfly or pound it to about ½" thickness for even cooking.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning to bring in aromatic flavors.
- ½ teaspoon paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste—seasoning your chicken is crucial for an irresistible dish.
Properly seasoning your chicken can elevate the entire meal, prompting friends and family to come back for seconds!
Pasta Ingredients
For the pasta portion, gather these staples:
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (you can opt for regular, gluten-free, or high-protein versions).
- 2 cups chicken broth for a deep, rich flavor.
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese—grate it fresh for the best melt!
- ½ cup heavy cream to create that luxurious sauce.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and ½ jumbo yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup) for depth of flavor.
- 4-6 large cloves of garlic (minced) to truly make this dish shine.
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Make sure to check the pantry for these ingredients before starting your cooking adventure!
Tools Needed for Preparation
Having the right tools makes all the difference. For this recipe, you'll need:
- A cutting board and a knife for prepping the vegetables and chicken.
- A small bowl to mix your seasoning.
- A large pan with a lid for preparing everything in one go.
- Tongs for flipping the chicken without a mess.
- A spatula to help combine your pasta and sauce.
With these ingredients and tools, you're all set to whip up a delicious dinner in no time! For more cooking tips and tricks, consider checking out resources like Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you're making something as comforting as garlic parmesan chicken and pasta. This one-pan dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies cleanup. Let’s dive into the steps!
Prepare the chicken seasoning
Start by crafting a simple yet flavorful seasoning mix. In a small bowl, combine:
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pat your boneless, skinless chicken breast dry and generously rub this seasoning blend on both sides. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors, making every bite oh-so-delicious.
Cook the seasoned chicken
Next, heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Once it’s hot, place your seasoned chicken in the pan, cooking for about 3 to 5 minutes per side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest. This resting period is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy, tender chicken later on.
Sauté onions and garlic
With the chicken resting, lower the heat to medium-low and add another tablespoon of avocado oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Toss in ½ of a jumbo yellow onion (diced) and season it lightly with salt. Sauté it for about 3 minutes or until it becomes tender and translucent. Next, add 4-6 large cloves of minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. Cooking your aromatics this way builds a flavorful base for your cream sauce.
Cook the pasta in broth
Now comes the exciting part! Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth reach a light boil, then stir in 8 ounces of dry penne pasta. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth, then cover the pan and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This method allows the pasta to absorb all the chicken flavor, enhancing every bite.
Combine ingredients and create the creamy sauce
Once the pasta is al dente, it's time to bring everything together. Turn off the heat and mix in 1 cup of finely grated parmesan cheese, ½ cup of heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and thickened. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
Finally, slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back into the pan. Toss everything together so the flavors meld beautifully. And there you have it—your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta is ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Boost the goodness of your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta by tossing in some vibrant vegetables! Spinach, broccoli, and bell peppers not only add essential vitamins but also beautiful color to your dish. Simply sauté your chosen veggies alongside the garlic until tender before mixing them in with the pasta. This adds a delightful crunch and enriches your meal without taking away from that creamy, indulgent flavor.
Creating a Gluten-Free Version
If you're following a gluten-free diet, fear not! You can easily adapt your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta by swapping regular penne for gluten-free pasta. There are many great options made from chickpeas, lentils, or brown rice that cook just as beautifully. Just be sure to check the pasta packaging for the best cooking times to get that perfect al dente texture. Enjoy the same comforting flavors while keeping it gluten-free!
For more tips on healthy swaps, check out this article from Healthline that discusses various alternative ingredients.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Choosing the Right Parmesan Cheese
When it comes to garlic parmesan chicken and pasta, the quality of your cheese can make all the difference. For best results, opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged stuff. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the sauce's creaminess. For ideas on where to find top-notch cheese, check out Cheese.com.
Ensuring Perfect Pasta Texture
To achieve that ideal pasta texture, remember to cook it al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite when you chew it. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat, especially when mixed with the hot sauce. For more pasta-cooking tips, consider visiting Pasta Evangelists. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Ideal Side Dishes
Complement your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta with simple yet delightful side dishes. Consider serving steamed broccoli for a pop of color and crunch, or a medley of roasted vegetables for added nutrition. Garlic bread is also a perfect partner; its crispiness balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
Pairing with Salads and Bread
A fresh caesar salad can enhance your meal with its crunchy romaine and zesty dressing, making it a great foil to the rich pasta. You might also enjoy a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Don’t forget to lay out some crusty bread—it’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce!
Looking for more ideas? Check out our guide on quick salads here and explore delicious bread options here.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Preparation Time
Start your culinary adventure with just 5 minutes of prep! You'll be chopping onions, mincing garlic, and seasoning your chicken, all of which can easily fit into a busy schedule.
Cooking Time
Once everything is ready, the actual cooking takes 30 minutes. This includes searing the chicken and bringing the garlic parmesan sauce to life while the pasta cooks in the same pan.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you can serve a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta dish that will impress your friends or family! Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.
Looking for more quick dinner recipes? Check out this resource on 30-minute meals!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Understanding the nutritional profile of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta can help you make informed choices about your meals. Here are some essential details:
Calories
This delicious dish contains approximately 665 calories per serving, making it a filling option for dinner that won't derail your health goals.
Protein Content
Packed with over 41 grams of protein, this meal is excellent for muscle repair and growth. The chicken and cheese contribute significantly, making it a protein powerhouse.
Key Nutrients
In addition to protein, this dish offers several key nutrients:
- Fat: 32g (includes healthy fats from avocado oil)
- Carbohydrates: 53g (great for energy)
- Calcium: 302mg (important for bone health)
- Iron: 2mg (supports blood health)
By incorporating Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta into your dinner rotation, you can enjoy a delightful meal that’s both tasty and nutritious. If you're interested in more detailed nutritional info, check out resources like the USDA's FoodData Central for comprehensive food data.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic parmesan chicken and pasta in advance. Just cook it fully, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth for a creamy sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
No problem! If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. While it won't provide the same fresh flavor, it still adds a lovely garlic essence to your dish.
How to store leftovers properly?
To keep your garlic parmesan chicken and pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within three days. You can also freeze the dish for future meals—just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. When reheating, a little milk or cream can help restore the creaminess!
Conclusion on Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta
Choosing garlic parmesan chicken and pasta is ideal for young professionals seeking a simple yet impressive dinner. This one-pan dish is quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy a delicious restaurant-quality meal without the fuss, all in under 30 minutes!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta (One-Pan)
Equipment
- cutting board
- Knife
- small bowl
- large pan with lid
- tongs
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast butterflied or beaten down to about ½" thickness
- 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ jumbo yellow onion diced (1 cup)
- 4-6 large cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz dry penne pasta normal, gluten free or protein pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese freshly grated is best
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix together the italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper. Pat the chicken dry and then rub both sides with the seasoning mixture.
- Bring a large pan to medium heat. Once hot, add avocado oil. Then, add seasoned chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165F. Remove chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add more avocado oil and butter. Then, add onion and season it with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes, or until beginning to get tender and translucent. Add garlic, stir, and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the broth to come to a light boil. Then, add the dry pasta and stir to make sure that the pasta is submerged in the broth.
- Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes or until the pasta is al-dente.
- Turn off the heat and add in the parmesan, heavy cream and parsley. Stir until the parmesan is melted and the sauce is warm and thickened slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it into the pan along with the pasta. Toss to combine. Then, serve & enjoy!
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