Ready for a creamy, dreamy dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make? This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a perfect simple dinner recipe, bringing comfort and flavor to your table without a fuss. You’ll love how quickly this satisfying meal comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini is great, or use spaghetti for a classic twist.
- Cream: Heavy cream creates the richest sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for the best flavor.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully. You can also use Pecorino Romano.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Spices:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 550 (approx.)
- Tools needed: Large skillet, large pot for pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Build the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Everything
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish your simple dinner recipe with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and savor your delicious creamy garlic chicken pasta.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in cooked broccoli florets, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick to this simple dinner recipe.
- Herb Twist: Fresh basil or thyme can be chopped and added with the parsley for a different aromatic flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover creamy garlic chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients, but for the best texture, cook and serve this simple dinner recipe fresh.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fettuccine are excellent choices for holding the creamy sauce.
Can you use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken; add it during step 5 to warm through.
How do you prevent the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat at medium or low when adding cream and cheese, and avoid boiling the sauce vigorously.
What if the sauce is too thin?
Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken naturally.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Cream-based sauces and pasta can sometimes change texture when frozen and thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.