Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta

I’m excited to share my favorite chicken parmesan pasta recipe. It’s perfect for any night or a special event. This dish is a hit in my home and will be in yours too. It’s easy to make and ready in no time.

Quality ingredients and careful preparation make this dish great. The chicken is tender, and the garlic parmesan sauce is flavorful. It’s a twist on a classic that everyone will love.

Key Takeaways

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 5
  • Nutritional Information per serving: 447 kcal, 36g carbohydrates, 41g protein
  • Recipe ingredients include 12 ounces of parmesan garlic sauce and 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Cooking time on low is 5-6 hours, while cooking time on high is 3-4 hours

Why This Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe Is My Family’s Favorite

This chicken parmesan pasta recipe is a hit in my home. It combines the best flavors: parmesan cheese, garlic, and tender chicken. Whether it’s garlic parmesan chicken tortellini or parmesan chicken pasta bake, it always gets rave reviews.

I love this recipe because it’s easy on the wallet. It uses chicken, pasta, and parmesan cheese, making it a budget-friendly choice for dinner. Plus, it’s fast to make, ideal for families with busy schedules. The creamy garlic chicken parmesan pasta is a family favorite, ready in under 30 minutes.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The secret to this recipe’s success is its flavor balance. Garlic and parmesan cheese bring a rich taste, while chicken adds protein. It’s also flexible, allowing me to tweak it to my family’s liking.

A Budget-Friendly Dinner Option

Here are some benefits of this recipe:

  • Affordable ingredients
  • Quick preparation time
  • Can be made in large quantities

Quick Preparation Time

This recipe is quick, ready in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s parmesan chicken pasta bake or creamy garlic chicken parmesan pasta, it’s perfect for busy nights. I can whip up a tasty meal in no time.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Sauce

To make a delicious chicken dinner, you need the right ingredients. Garlic parmesan sauce is key, with a few must-haves in your pantry. These ingredients give the sauce its rich, creamy flavor, perfect for chicken dinner recipes videos.

Garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream are the basics. You can add herbs and spices to make it your own. For a budget friendly dinner ideas, use store-bought parmesan and heavy cream, which are cheaper.

Here is a list of the essential ingredients you will need:

  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

With these ingredients, you can make a delicious garlic parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for your chicken dinner. You can also use it as a dipping sauce or topping for your chicken dinner recipes videos and budget friendly dinner ideas.

IngredientQuantity
Garlic3 cloves
Heavy cream1 cup
Parmesan cheese1/2 cup

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

To make a tasty chicken parmesan pasta, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. For affordable meal ideas, the right tools are crucial. You’ll need a big pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking chicken, and a saucepan for the garlic parmesan sauce.

Here’s a list of the basic cookware you’ll need:

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for cooking chicken
  • Saucepan for making the garlic parmesan sauce
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Cutting board for chopping ingredients

Optional Tools for Easier Preparation

Some optional tools can make prep easier and quicker. A food processor or blender helps with the garlic parmesan sauce. A meat tenderizer also makes the chicken breast tender. These tools help in making simple pasta ideas that taste great and are easy to prepare.

Having the right kitchen tools lets you make a variety of affordable meal ideas. Whether you’re after simple pasta ideas or more complex dishes, the right tools help you succeed in the kitchen.

Preparing Your Chicken for Maximum Flavor

To make tasty chicken parmesan pasta, focus on the chicken. Cutting it into thin slices or strips helps it cook evenly and fast. This is key for making chicken parmesan pasta delicious.

Seasoning the chicken with herbs and spices adds flavor and aroma. Italian seasoning can boost the dish’s taste. Marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs makes it tender and flavorful.

Cutting and Seasoning Techniques

Some important cutting and seasoning tips include:

  • Cut the chicken into thin slices or strips to ensure even cooking
  • Season the chicken with herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning, to add flavor and aroma
  • Use a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for marinating the chicken

Marination Tips

Marinating the chicken adds flavor and tenderness. Here are some tips:

Using acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar helps break down the chicken’s proteins. A mix of herbs and spices adds depth. For chicken parmesan pasta, a marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs is perfect.

By following these tips, you can make your chicken flavorful. This will help you create a delicious chicken parmesan pasta dish. With practice, you’ll get better at preparing chicken for tasty pasta recipes.

Creating the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

To make a delicious garlic parmesan chicken tortellini or parmesan chicken pasta bake, you need a rich and creamy sauce. The key to a great sauce is using high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh garlic, grated parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.

In a saucepan, combine minced garlic cloves and grated parmesan cheese with heavy cream. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. You can also add herbs and spices to customize the sauce to your liking.

Here are the ingredients you will need for the sauce:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 8 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

The sauce is a crucial component of both garlic parmesan chicken tortellini and parmesan chicken pasta bake. With these ingredients, you can create a delicious and creamy sauce. Enjoy it with your favorite pasta dishes.

IngredientQuantity
Heavy cream2 cups
Grated parmesan cheese1 cup
Garlic cloves, minced8
Butter1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

To make chicken parmesan pasta, follow a simple process. You’ll cook pasta, prepare chicken, and mix everything together. You can find this guide in many chicken dinner recipes videos online.

Start by boiling pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Cut it into thin slices or strips. Then, cook it in a skillet with olive oil and garlic. This is a budget friendly dinner idea that uses few ingredients.

Cooking the Pasta

Cooking pasta is easy. Boil it in salted water for about 12 minutes, until it’s al dente. Check if it’s done by biting into it. If it has a bit of bite, it’s ready.

Preparing the Chicken

To prepare the chicken, cut it into thin slices or strips. Cook it in a skillet with olive oil and garlic. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.

Combining All Elements

Once pasta and chicken are cooked, mix them in a large bowl with garlic parmesan sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Serve hot.

My Secret Tips for the Perfect Texture

To get the perfect texture for your creamy garlic chicken parmesan pasta, follow a few tips. First, cook the pasta al dente. This means it should still have a bit of bite or chew. This helps the pasta keep its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce. You can find many chicken dinner recipes videos online that show this technique.

Another key tip is to mix parmesan cheese and heavy cream in the sauce. This makes the sauce rich and creamy, coating the pasta well. For a crispy chicken coating, use panko bread crumbs. They add 30-50% more texture than regular bread crumbs. Using the right ingredients and techniques will make your dish stand out.

Some more tips to remember include:

  • Cooking with extra-virgin olive oil for extra flavor
  • Preparing chicken cutlets to a thickness of exactly 1/4 inch for even cooking and tenderness
  • Frying at the right temperature, around 350°F, to add crispiness

By following these tips and techniques, you’ll make a delicious creamy garlic chicken parmesan pasta. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With practice and patience, you’ll become a pro at making this classic dish. You can find many chicken dinner recipes videos online to help you.

Variations and Customization Options

To spice up your chicken parmesan pasta, try adding veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach. They bring color and nutrients to your plate. This makes for a healthy and tasty meal that’s easy on the wallet.

Adjust the spice level to your liking by tweaking the garlic or pepper amounts. You can also play with different pasta types, like linguine or fettuccine, to change the dish’s feel and taste. This way, you can whip up a quick and easy dinner that’s just right for you.

  • Adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms can boost flavor and nutrition.
  • Try different cheeses, like mozzarella or parmesan, for a unique taste.
  • Some fresh basil or oregano can add a burst of fresh flavor.

Exploring these variations lets you tailor your chicken parmesan pasta to your taste. Whether you’re after affordable meal ideas or simple pasta ideas, this dish is a great pick.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

To keep your chicken parmesan pasta fresh, store it right. Put it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for several days. When reheating, mix microwave and oven to avoid drying and ensure even heating.

Reheating is key for keeping chicken parmesan pasta tasty. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Reheat in the microwave with a bit of water to keep the sauce right.
  • Cover the pasta while reheating to stop it from drying out.
  • Use the oven for even heating and to prevent drying.

Leftover chicken parmesan pasta can be stored in the fridge for about 7 days. You can freeze chicken and sauce, but cooked pasta doesn’t freeze well. By following these tips, you can enjoy your pasta longer while keeping its flavor and texture.

Here’s a quick summary of how to store and reheat chicken parmesan pasta:

Storage MethodReheating MethodShelf Life
Airtight container in the fridgeMicrowave and oven heating7 days

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your chicken parmesan pasta. It’s a quick and tasty meal option.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

There are many ways to serve garlic parmesan chicken tortellini. You can pair it with garlic bread and salad for a nice contrast. Or, add roasted vegetables or a green salad for a heartier meal.

Drinking a dry white wine or a crisp lager can enhance the dish’s flavors. A lighter choice like pinot grigio can balance the parmesan sauce’s richness. For those who don’t drink, iced tea or lemon-infused sparkling water can refresh your taste buds.

Here are some more ideas for serving your garlic parmesan chicken tortellini:

  • Garlic bread: a classic pairing that helps soak up the flavorful sauce
  • Side salad: provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta
  • Roasted vegetables: adds a pop of color and flavor to the dish
  • Grilled chicken: adds extra protein and texture to the meal

breadsticks or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. No matter what, your parmesan chicken pasta bake will be a hit with everyone.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Mastering chicken parmesan pasta is easy. Just follow a few simple steps. Cook the pasta al dente, prepare the chicken with garlic and herbs. Then, mix it all with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

This dish is a hit with families, with a recipe rating of 4.19 out of 5 from 148 votes. It’s both delicious and satisfying. It’s perfect for those looking for budget-friendly dinner ideas or a comforting chicken dish.

Each serving has 533 kcal, 42.1g of protein, and 19.3g of fat. It’s nutritious and filling. You can also adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables to make it your own.

So, take the time to make this chicken parmesan pasta. Your family will love it. With a little practice, you’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills. Enjoy your chicken dinner recipes videos and budget friendly dinner ideas!

FAQ

What are the essential ingredients for the perfect garlic parmesan sauce?

The key ingredients for the perfect garlic parmesan sauce are garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. These give the sauce its rich, creamy taste.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make chicken parmesan pasta?

You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking chicken, and a saucepan for the garlic parmesan sauce. A food processor or blender can also help speed up prep.

What are some tips for preparing the chicken to maximize flavor?

To boost the chicken’s flavor, cut it into thin slices or strips. Season it with herbs and spices. Marinate it in olive oil, garlic, and herbs. These steps tenderize the chicken and add flavor.

How do you create the creamy garlic parmesan sauce?

Mix garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream in a saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s smooth and creamy. You can also add herbs and spices to customize the sauce.

What are the steps to cook the chicken parmesan pasta?

First, boil the pasta. Then, prepare the chicken. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and garlic parmesan sauce in a bowl. Stir until the pasta is well coated.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture for the chicken parmesan pasta?

Cook the pasta al dente for a better texture. Use a mix of parmesan cheese and heavy cream for a creamy sauce. This ensures the pasta is evenly coated.

What are some variations and customization options for the chicken parmesan pasta?

Add veggies like cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor. Adjust the spice level with more garlic or different peppers. Try different pasta types for a unique texture and taste.

How should you store and reheat the chicken parmesan pasta?

Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for several days. Reheat it using microwave and oven to prevent drying. Adding extra sauce or cheese keeps it moist.

What are some suggested pairings and serving ideas for the chicken parmesan pasta?

Serve with garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Or, pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Try different wines or beers to complement the flavors.

Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Sarah
Chicken Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Enjoy this creamy, cheesy pasta recipe that's quick, simple, and oh-so-delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 slices
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 medium chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian-style
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  • Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
  • Set Up Dredging Stations: In three shallow bowls, prepare the dredging ingredients:
  • Bowl 1: Add flour.
  • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
  • Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour (shake off excess), dip into the beaten eggs, and coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Step 2: Cook the Chicken
  • Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
  • Step 3: Cook the Pasta
  • Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 4: Make the Sauce
  • Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Step 5: Combine and Bake
  • Assemble the Dish:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce.
  • Place the cooked chicken on top of the pasta.
  • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the chicken and pasta.
  • Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Serve: Plate the pasta and chicken together, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight!

Notes

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Sugar: 7g
  • Protein: 35g
Keyword Chicken Parmesan Pasta, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food