Description:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a luxurious yet easy-to-make dinner recipe that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. The dish is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and elegant, and it comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 4-6 people
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb or 450g)
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or farfalle work well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup (150g) sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk (for the sauce)
- Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate to rest.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the garlic.
- Make the Roux: Push the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to one side of the skillet. Add the butter to the empty side and let it melt. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk quickly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
- Combine the Sauce: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Spinach and Parmesan: Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the sauce. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Slice the Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add Pasta and Chicken to the Sauce: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
- Extra Creamy: Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce made with garlic, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach creates a dish that’s both hearty and refined. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a date night or dinner party. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Final Thoughts:
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This recipe proves that with a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, grab your skillet, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
