Name: Easy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil (Costabile Brand); 1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp dried shallots; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 baking flour; 3 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagin extracte tender pieces of perfectly cooked chicken mingling with al dente pasta, all bathed in a creamy, decadent sauce bursting with the irresistible aromas of roasted garlic and sharp, salty Parmesan cheese. It’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved classic in kitchens around the world. People adore Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta because it strikes that perfect balance between comforting familiarity and sophisticated flavor. It’s the kind of dish that can be both a weeknight lifesaver and a showstopper for guests. What truly sets this particular iteration apart is the careful layering of flavors – from the initial sauté of garlic until it’s fragrant and golden, to the way the Parmesan melts into a rich, velvety embrace. This isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about coaxing out the very best from each component to create something truly unforgettable.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil (Costabile Brand)
1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp dried shallots
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 baking flour
3 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Chicken

Seasoning the Chicken

To start this delightful Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta, let’s get our chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized pieces of Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast with the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Toss everything together gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. This step is crucial for infusing flavor right into the core of the chicken. Allowing the chicken to sit with the seasonings for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare other elements can deepen the flavor even further, so don’t hesitate to let it rest.

Searing the Chicken

Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so you might need to cook the chicken in batches. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, and we’re aiming for a beautiful golden-brown crust. Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and has a nice sear. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t worry about any browned bits left in the pan; those are packed with flavor and will be used in the sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

While the chicken is resting, it’s time to cook our pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 ounces of gluten-free farfalle pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Gluten-free pasta can sometimes have a slightly different cooking time than traditional pasta, so tasting a piece to check for doneness is highly recommended. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water is liquid gold for our sauce, as its starch content will help it emulsify and thicken beautifully.

Making the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Building the Flavor Base

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (no need to wipe it clean!), melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the 2 teaspoons of dried shallots and the 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the shallots are fragrant and just begin extractning to soften. Be careful not to burn the shallots. This aromatic base will form the foundation of our rich sauce.

Thickening the Sauce

Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of gluten-free 1:1 flour over the shallot and butter mixture. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to cook slightly and form a paste (this is called a roux). This roux will act as a thickener for our sauce. Gradually pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and continue to whisk untgin extractit begins to thicken.

Adding the Cream and Cheese

Pour in the 3 cups of heavy cream, whisking to combine it with the broth and flour mixture. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. You’re looking for a sauce that coats the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed with a little more salt and pepper.

Combining Everything

Reuniting the Chicken and Pasta

Now for the grand finnon-alcoholic ale! Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken. Add the drained gluten-free farfalle pasta to the skillet as well. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well combined with the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems a little too thick at this point, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency. The starch in the pasta water will help the sauce cling perfectly to every piece of pasta and chicken.

Serving Your Masterpiece

Serve the Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley, if desired. This dish is incredibly satisfying and a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting pasta dish!

Conclusion:

There you have it – a truly delightful and satisfying way to prepare Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta! This recipe strikes a perfect balance between creamy, garlicky goodness and tender, savory chicken. It’s a dish that’s elegant enough for a special occasion but also wonderfully comforting for a weeknight meal. We’ve walked through each step, ensuring you have all the information needed to recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to make it your own; the beauty of this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta lies in its adaptability. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic pasta creation!

For serving, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread to mop up that incredible sauce are perfect companions. Think of adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While this recipe works wonderfully with fettuccine or linguine, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even shells. Just ensure you cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce might be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free option, a good quality unsweetened cashew cream or a plant-based evaporated milk can be used, but be aware the flavor profile might change slightly.

How can I make this spicier?

To add a kick, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the finished sauce before serving. You could also sauté some sliced jalapeños with the chicken for a more integrated heat.