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If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is absolutely for you. Picture tender, juicy chicken pieces enveloped in a luxuriously smooth garlic-infused cream sauce, all perfectly tossed with al dente pasta. Every forkful is bursting with layers of comfort and rich flavor, making it a go-to indulgence that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend treat, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that feels fancy but comes together quickly with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to making a standout Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in using simple, yet essential ingredients that each bring their own magic. From the golden chicken seared to perfection, to the fragrant garlic and shallots building the base of flavor, every item plays a key role in the taste, texture, and appearance of this beloved dish.
- 300 g pasta: Choose your favorite type, such as penne or fettuccine, as it holds the sauce wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps cook the chicken evenly.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Provides richness and a silky finish to the sauce.
- 450 g chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces: Tender and lean, it cooks quickly and soaks up flavors.
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced: Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the garlic.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient for that unmistakable creamy garlic punch.
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that elevates the dish’s aroma and complexity.
- 75 ml dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth while helping to deglaze the pan perfectly.
- 200 ml heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
- 50 g grated Parmesan: Brings a salty, nutty brightness that ties everything together.
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions. The goal here is al dente — tender but still with a little bite. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy water will be your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency later on. Cooking pasta right is the foundation of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe, so don’t rush this step.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken Until Juicy and Golden
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. This step locks in moisture and flavor, creating bite-sized pieces that perfectly complement the cream sauce that’s to come.
Step 3: Build Aromatics with Shallots and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely diced shallot and cook for one minute until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic releases its fragrance without burning, creating a vibrant base that brings the creamy sauce to life in this recipe.
Step 4: Add Italian Seasoning and Deglaze with Wine
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning to infuse an herbaceous aroma, then pour in the dry white wine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze, loosening all those delicious golden bits stuck to the pan. Let the wine simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors, enhancing the sauce’s complexity beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce and Combine
Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently cook until it thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together so each piece is cloaked in the sumptuous sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water little by little until you get the perfect silky consistency. This mixing step is where the magic of the Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe truly shines.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan, Parsley, and Seasoning
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, adding a savory, nutty, and herbaceous finish. Give the dish a gentle taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the lush flavors at their best, and watch how this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe wins hearts at your table.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the dish visually and add fresh contrast, sprinkle extra chopped parsley or finely grated Parmesan on top just before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a subtle shine and extra richness. These simple garnishes make the dish pop and invite everyone to dig in happily.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crunchy baguette is another perfect companion, soaking up every last drop of that irresistible sauce. For a vegetable side, lightly steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans offer a fresh and vibrant counterbalance.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch at dinner parties, serve the pasta nestled in warmed shallow bowls and sprinkle colorful edible flowers or microgreens on top. You can also portion the pasta into small ramekins for individual servings, topped with a Parmesan crisp. These creative presentations elevate this comfort food into something truly special without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken tender and preserve the sauce’s creaminess, refrigerate promptly and avoid overcrowding your container so flavors stay fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes impact texture, it’s possible with this recipe if done carefully. Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help retain that luscious sauce consistency.
Reheating
When reheating your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe, warm it gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure the chicken reheats evenly. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can sometimes lead to uneven heating and a grainy sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so you can use penne, fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. The key is to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when tossed with the creamy sauce.
Is there a substitute for the white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice to add acidity. This swap still helps deglaze the pan and build flavor without alcohol.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but still delicious.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, continue to simmer it gently until it reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, stirring in a small amount of grated Parmesan can also help thicken and enrich the sauce.
What’s the best way to prepare chicken for this dish?
Cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces ensures quick and even cooking, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce better. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice golden sear rather than steaming the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a homemade treasure. It brings together straightforward ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself after a long day, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll find it quickly becomes a cherished favorite you return to time and again.
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Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish combining tender chicken breast pieces with a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, perfectly tossed with pasta. Infused with Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley, this recipe offers a comforting and flavorful meal ideal for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10.5 oz (300 g) pasta
Protein
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids & Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (20 g) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup (75 ml) dry white wine
- 1 cup (200 ml) heavy cream
Seasonings & Cheese
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package directions. Ensure to reserve some pasta water when draining as it will be used later to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Cook chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly golden.
- Sauté shallot and garlic: Add the finely diced shallot to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add seasoning and deglaze: Stir in the Italian seasoning, then pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make cream sauce and combine: Pour in the heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness as needed.
- Finish with cheese and parsley: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserving pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency to your liking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option, but sauce may be less thick.
- Dry white wine contributes a subtle acidity; if preferred, replace with chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
- Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs if you prefer a juicier meat, adjusting cooking time slightly.
