Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Craving a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up for dinner tonight? Look no further, because this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a new family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. pasta of your choice
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until browned and no longer pink in the center. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information:

Serves 4
Calories: 480
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 360mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 32g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape in this recipe.

• Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

A: You can try using half and half or milk for a lighter version of the sauce, but the consistency may differ slightly.

• Q: How can I add extra flavor to this dish?

A: Consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a flavorful kick.

• Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and then combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.

• Q: Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful tips:

• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
• Season the chicken well to ensure a flavorful dish.
• Toss the pasta in the sauce just before serving to prevent it from becoming too dry.
• Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy zing.

Expert Secrets:

• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness.
• Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to your taste preferences.
• For a crispy texture, you can lightly coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for variation in flavor.
• To make the dish healthier, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream.