One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner 🍝🧄🧀
Unlock Culinary Simplicity: Introducing the One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Are you on the hunt for an incredibly simple yet profoundly flavorful meal solution that minimizes kitchen chaos? Look no further than this stellar one pan chicken pasta recipe. This exquisite garlic Parmesan pasta masterfully blends succulent chicken pieces, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, creamy garlic sauce that bursts with rich, savory notes. Whether you’re navigating a demanding weeknight schedule or delighting guests, this easy dinner recipe promises universal appeal. Prepare for a dish that defines convenience without compromising on taste, making it an indispensable part of your go-to recipe collection. For more delightful pasta dishes, explore our pasta collection.
Gather Your Arsenal: Essential Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
To embark on crafting this sensational one pan chicken pasta, assemble these high-quality ingredients. Having the right tools can elevate your cooking experience. Consider the Kitchen Utensil Set-Silicone Cooking Utensils for seamless preparation or the Fullstar Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer for effortless ingredient prep.- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, expertly cut into bite-sized strips
- 12 oz (340g) of your preferred pasta – penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are excellent choices for this dish. For inspiration on pasta types, check out our recipes section.
- 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup (about 100g) of freshly grated authentic Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream for ultimate richness, or alternatively, full-fat milk for a slightly lighter version
- 2 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of aromatic Italian seasoning
- 1 cup of ripe cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for a burst of freshness and color)
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped, for a vibrant garnish
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Master the Method: Step-by-Step Guide to Your New Favorite Easy Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Initialize by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a spacious, deep skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This initial searing is crucial for developing flavor. Generously season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (you may need to cook in batches). Sear the chicken until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown crust and is cooked through, typically taking about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, promptly transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set it aside. This step ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful for the final dish. For evenly cooked chicken, consider using an Ninja Air Fryer Pro if you prefer air frying.Step 2: Cook the Pasta in the Flavored Pan
Return to the same skillet, which now holds all those delicious chicken drippings. Add your chosen uncooked pasta and pour in enough cold water (approximately 3–4 cups, or enough to generously cover the pasta by about an inch) to ensure the pasta cooks evenly. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure uniform cooking. If there’s any excess liquid remaining after the pasta is cooked, carefully drain it off. For consistently perfect pasta every time, a good pasta maker can be a valuable kitchen companion.Step 3: Craft the Luscious Garlic Parmesan Sauce
With the pasta cooked and drained in the skillet, it’s time to infuse it with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Add the finely minced garlic directly to the skillet with the pasta. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it releases its fragrant aroma – be careful not to burn it. Immediately pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously. Gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce transforms into a wonderfully smooth, creamy, and cohesive consistency. This fragrant sauce is the heart of our garlic parmesan pasta.Step 4: Bring It All Together for a Flavorful Finish
Now it’s time to reunite the perfectly seared chicken with the pasta and the luscious sauce. Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. If you’re using the optional cherry tomatoes, add the halved tomatoes now. Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring every piece of pasta and chicken is beautifully coated in the rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just long enough for the chicken and tomatoes to heat through and meld with the sauce. This final step ensures the flavors are harmoniously blended. Before serving, generously garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh aroma. This completes your impressive easy dinner recipe. For a complete meal, consider pairing with a side salad, perhaps a Strawberry Blonde Delight, for a refreshing contrast.Preserve the Deliciousness: Smart Storage Tips for Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Should you be fortunate enough to have any delectable garlic parmesan pasta leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining its delightful texture and flavor. For optimal preservation, transfer the cooled pasta into an airtight container, such as those from the JoyJolt 24pc Borosilicate Glass Storage Containers with Lids, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a gentle warming in the microwave or on the stovetop is recommended. To revive the creaminess of the sauce, consider adding a small splash of milk or light cream before heating. It’s advisable to avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce and pasta may alter in texture upon thawing. Proper storage is essential for any dinner leftovers.Elevate Your Plate: Serving Suggestions for This Ultimate Easy Dinner Recipe
This incredibly versatile one pan chicken pasta serves as a magnificent centerpiece for any meal. It pairs exquisitely with a crisp, refreshing green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or with lightly steamed seasonal vegetables for a balanced and nutritious plate. For an even more indulgent experience, serve alongside warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic bread, perfect for mopping up every last drop of the irresistible sauce. Consider adding complementary proteins like grilled shrimp or pan-seared mushrooms for an elevated culinary experience. The sheer richness of the garlic Parmesan sauce makes this dish a universally loved one pan chicken pasta, delivering unparalleled comfort and flavor in every single bite. For other comforting meal ideas, you might enjoy our Classic Pasta Al Pesto Sauce.Frequently Asked Questions: Your Culinary Queries Answered About This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Here are some common questions regarding this delightful garlic parmesan pasta recipe:
- Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs, with their richer flavor and higher fat content, will lend even more juiciness and depth to your one pan chicken pasta. Just be mindful that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the desired level of doneness. - Is it possible to prepare this recipe without dairy products?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Swap the Parmesan cheese for your favorite non-dairy Parmesan alternative and substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a rich almond milk for a creamy result. - Can this garlic Parmesan chicken pasta be prepared in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, immediately after preparation, you can certainly prepare certain components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and have your ingredients chopped and measured. This will significantly speed up the final assembly process when you’re ready to cook. - What pasta shapes are most suitable for this recipe?
Short, tubular, or twisted pasta shapes tend to excel in this dish as they have nooks and crannies that beautifully capture and hold the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Penne, fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni are all excellent choices. For more pasta inspiration, explore our lunch ideas. - What kind of skillet is best for this one-pan meal?
A large, oven-safe skillet with high sides, such as a cast-iron skillet or a Dutch oven, is ideal. These provide even heating and allow for easy tossing of ingredients. If you’re looking for new cookware, consider the CAROTE Nonstick Pots and Pans set.
The Verdict: Why This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is an Absolute Must-Try
When the craving strikes for a meal that is both quick to prepare and bursting with satisfying flavors, this one pan garlic parmesan chicken pasta emerges as a true culinary champion. Its straightforward preparation process, combined with its deeply comforting flavors and the sheer convenience of minimal cleanup, makes it an exceptionally smart choice for busy schedules. Furthermore, its inherent flexibility allows for effortless customization with your preferred vegetables or additional ingredients, making it a truly adaptable dish. Embrace this recipe and discover firsthand how wonderfully simple and incredibly delicious a one-pan meal can truly be! This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, similar to our Imperial Italian Pizza Feast.Your Next Culinary Adventure Awaits: Try This Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Pasta Today!
Are you ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinners into extraordinary culinary experiences? Follow this user-friendly recipe for a delightful one pan chicken pasta and delight your family and friends with a homemade, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal. We encourage you to share your cooking triumphs, any creative twists you’ve added, and your valuable tips in the comments section below or tag us on social media. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for a constant stream of fantastic recipes designed to inspire your inner chef! For more easy dinners, explore our dinner category.In Conclusion: Experience the Magic of One-Pan Cooking with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
The one pan garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe stands as an exemplary solution for those seeking delicious, rapid, and effortlessly prepared dinners. Characterized by its robust garlic and Parmesan flavor profile, harmoniously complemented by tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish masterfully satisfies both comfort and convenience needs. Give this recipe a try today and prepare to welcome a new, frequently requested favorite into your culinary repertoire! For other delightful one-pan meals, consider exploring options cooked in a Ninja OG951 Woodfire Pro Connect Premium XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker or a versatile Ninja FlexFlame, Grill and Smoker. Print
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
One Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all made in a single pan for minimal cleanup. This easy dinner recipe is bursting with flavor from garlic and Parmesan cheese, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add enough water to cover the uncooked pasta, about 3-4 cups. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until al dente, stirring occasionally. Drain excess water if necessary.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with cherry tomatoes, if using. Toss to coat with the sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
- Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing.
- This recipe can be customized with additional vegetables or proteins according to personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Main Course
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 600 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg