Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, glistening with a light, flavorful sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and a sprinkle of aromatic garlic that promises to transport you straight to an Italian kitchen. This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines simplicity with extraordinary flavor. Whether you're a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast craving a delicious comfort dish, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite that will impress family and friends alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add the diced cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm the chicken through.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a light simmer. This will help create a light sauce and enhance the flavors.
- Add the cooked and drained spaghetti directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta with the chicken and garlic, ensuring even coating.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently mix. If the sauce seems too dry, add some reserved pasta water to create a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese and freshly grate it yourself for maximum flavor and creaminess.
- Don't overcook the garlic - 30-45 seconds is perfect to release its flavor without burning.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; it's liquid gold for creating a silky, smooth sauce.
- For extra richness, use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth.
- If you want a more intense garlic flavor, roast the garlic beforehand or add a pinch of garlic powder.
- For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta and lean chicken breast.
- Let the pasta rest in the skillet for a minute after adding cheese to help it melt perfectly.
- Fresh parsley is key - it adds a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
