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Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta Recipe

4.4 from 127 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta recipe is a creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender seasoned chicken breast cooked to perfection and combined with flavorful penne pasta simmered in a garlic-infused parmesan cream sauce. Easy to prepare and packed with savory Italian-inspired flavors, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied or beaten down to about ½” thickness)
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper (to taste)

Sauce and Pasta

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ jumbo yellow onion (diced, about 1 cup)
  • 46 large cloves garlic (minced)
  • 8 oz dry penne pasta (normal, gluten free, or protein pasta)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry, then rub both sides thoroughly with the seasoning mixture to ensure even flavor.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon avocado oil. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
  3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add another tablespoon of avocado oil and the butter to the pan. Add the diced onion, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions become translucent and tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Deglaze and Add Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the broth to a gentle boil. Add the dry penne pasta, pressing it down so it is submerged in the broth, and stir gently to combine.
  5. Cook Pasta: Cover the pan with a lid and cook the pasta for approximately 10 minutes, or until it is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking if needed.
  6. Finish the Sauce: Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and chopped parsley. Stir continuously until the Parmesan is melted and the sauce becomes warm and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Combine and Serve: Slice the rested chicken into strips and add them back into the pan with the pasta. Toss everything gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken and pasta!

Notes

  • You can substitute avocado oil with olive oil as preferred.
  • Use gluten-free or protein-enriched pasta for dietary needs.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
  • For added flavor, garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving.

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Creamy Chicken Pasta, One Pan Pasta, Italian Chicken Recipes, Easy Weeknight Dinner