Description
Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta blends creamy cheese and tender chicken in a rich, flavorful embrace. Rich Italian-inspired comfort melds with hearty ingredients, promising a satisfying meal that whisks you straight to culinary bliss.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 lb chicken breast, pounded to even thickness
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Base Ingredients:
- 1 lb shortcut pasta (Rigatoni or any type, gluten-free if needed)
- 2 cups milk (any kind)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (vegan butter if needed)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan
- Extra red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, allowing pasta to dance and soften into perfect al dente texture. Capture a cup of starchy liquid before draining the pasta.
- Transform chicken into a flavor-packed masterpiece by massaging it with olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, dried sage, and fiery red pepper flakes.
- Ignite a cast iron skillet to medium-high temperature, introducing the seasoned chicken to create a golden, crispy exterior. Execute a mid-cooking flip, potentially introducing a splash of water to prevent scorching. Verify doneness by ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F, then gracefully remove and reserve.
- Repurpose the same skillet by melting butter and allowing garlic to release its aromatic essence. Craft a silky roux by incorporating flour, then gradually introduce chicken broth, whisking away any potential lumps with precision.
- Transition to a gentle heat, welcoming milk and heavy cream into the mixture. Orchestrate a continuous whisking performance until the sauce transforms into a luxurious, velvety consistency. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper until seamlessly integrated.
- Unite the pasta with the creamy sauce, ensuring each strand becomes thoroughly coated. Leverage the reserved pasta water to fine-tune the sauce’s consistency, creating a harmonious blend.
- Present the dish by elegantly draping sliced chicken atop the pasta. Elevate the visual and flavor profile with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, additional Parmesan, and fresh parsley.
Notes
- Pasta Water Magic: Reserve the starchy pasta water as a secret weapon to help sauce cling perfectly to noodles and adjust sauce thickness smoothly.
- Smart Protein Swap: Replace chicken with tofu, shredded rotisserie chicken, or white fish for varied protein options that keep the dish versatile.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F, preventing dry meat while guaranteeing food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg