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This creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta combines tender chicken breast with al dente pasta, all tossed in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce that clings perfectly to each bite. The blend of Italian herbs and perfectly seasoned chicken makes this a restaurant-quality dish you can easily create at home.
I first created this recipe when my family was craving something hearty yet impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Now it's our go-to "special" dinner that feels indulgent but comes together surprisingly quickly.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Cut into thin cutlets for faster more even cooking
- Italian seasonings: Bringing classic Mediterranean flavor to both the chicken and sauce
- Gluten free farfalle pasta: Though any pasta shape works beautifully
- Heavy cream: Creating the luxurious base for the sauce
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for best melting and flavor
- Chicken broth: Adding depth to the sauce while thinning the richness slightly
- Butter: For creating a silky texture in the sauce
- Dried shallots: Providing subtle onion flavor without overwhelming the dish
- Garlic powder: Infusing the entire dish with aromatic goodness
- Reserved pasta water: The secret to perfectly silky sauce consistency
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Seasoning:
- Combine paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all spices. This custom blend will create a flavorful crust on the chicken that complements the creamy pasta sauce.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add gluten free farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions for al dente texture. Be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This starchy water is essential for creating the perfect sauce consistency later.
- Season and Prepare the Chicken:
- Pound chicken breasts slightly to create even thickness, allowing for more consistent cooking. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with the prepared seasoning blend, pressing slightly to adhere. Ensure complete coverage for maximum flavor.
- Sear and Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for exactly 5 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. Reduce heat to medium low, cover the pan with a tight fitting lid, and continue cooking for 10 to 12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Remove chicken to a cutting board and allow to rest.
- Create the Sauce Base:
- In the same skillet with all the flavorful chicken bits, add butter and allow to melt completely. Once melted, add dried shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir constantly for one full minute to bloom the spices and develop their flavors in the butter.
- Build the Cream Sauce:
- Sprinkle gluten free flour over the seasoned butter and stir vigorously, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This creates a flavorful roux that will thicken the sauce. Pour in chicken broth followed by heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cheese:
- Gradually add the shredded parmesan to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly to ensure smooth melting. Continue cooking while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still flow freely.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta directly to the sauce, tossing gently but thoroughly to coat each piece. Add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches the perfect silky consistency. The starch in the water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Finish with Chicken:
- Slice the rested chicken into strips against the grain. Gently fold the sliced chicken into the pasta, being careful not to break the pasta. Allow the dish to rest for 2 minutes off heat so the flavors can meld together.
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The technique of building the sauce in the same pan where you cooked the chicken is something I learned from my Italian grandmother. Those browned bits at the bottom of the pan contain incredible flavor compounds that dissolve into the sauce, creating layers of taste you simply cannot get any other way.
How to Store Leftovers
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently over medium low heat or in the microwave at 70% power. The gentle reheating prevents the sauce from separating and keeps the chicken from becoming tough. I actually think the flavors develop even more after a day in the refrigerator.
Customize Your Pasta
This versatile recipe serves as a wonderful base for endless variations. Add sundried tomatoes and spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Substitute shrimp for chicken for an elegant seafood twist. For vegetable lovers, roasted mushrooms, asparagus, or broccoli blend perfectly with the creamy sauce. During summer months, I often add fresh basil and cherry tomatoes from my garden for a seasonal touch. Whatever your preferences, maintain the sauce to pasta ratio for consistent results.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this indulgent pasta with a crisp, acidic green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance the richness of the cream sauce. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. For wine pairings, a medium bodied white like Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay complements without overwhelming the delicate flavors. I love serving this dish family style in a large, shallow bowl that keeps the pasta warm throughout the meal.
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Serve this creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta for an unforgettable meal that feels like a restaurant-quality experience right in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular farfalle or any pasta shape you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly, so follow the package directions for al dente pasta.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
To make a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, use less parmesan cheese, and increase the amount of chicken broth. You can also use boneless skinless chicken thighs for more flavor with less need for added fats.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
The chicken can be seasoned and cooked up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The sauce is best made fresh, but the entire dish reheats well with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
- → What sides pair well with this pasta dish?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes also make excellent accompaniments.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- → Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Cream-based pasta dishes generally don't freeze well as the sauce may separate when thawed. If you need to freeze it, consider freezing the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce for better results when reheating.