Creamy Garlic Chicken with Pasta

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• Salt, for boiling water

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Create the Roux:
   • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquids:
   • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning:
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
2. Add Chicken:
   • Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta, or mix it in.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair with roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Variations

1. Mushroom Garlic Chicken:
   • Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, savory addition.
2. Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken:
   • Stir in fresh spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
3. Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
4. Bacon Garlic Chicken Pasta:
   • Sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the dish for a smoky, salty crunch.
5. Gluten-Free Version:
   • Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cornstarch for the flour in the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Pasta is a delightful combination of savory flavors and creamy textures that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for both casual meals and special dinners. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your kitchen!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and stay juicy during cooking.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or peas are great additions to this dish.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Avoid boiling the cream sauce; cook it gently over medium heat to maintain a smooth texture.

Enjoy creating and savoring this comforting and flavorful dish—it’s sure to please everyone at the table! 🍝✨🍗