Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken. This dish has become a staple in households because of its rich flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or feeding a hungry family, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to please. The sauce is velvety smooth, thanks to the garlic and Parmesan, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. You’ll find yourself returning to this dish again and again for its unbeatable flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy & Indulgent: The sauce is smooth, rich, and full of garlic Parmesan flavor, making every bite a delight.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike, it’s a perfect dish for picky eaters.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this pasta dish by adding veggies or swapping out proteins.
- Easy to Make: Ideal for novice cooks or busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly with just a few steps.
- Great for Leftovers: It tastes just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 1 pound rotini, cooked and drained (reserving 1 cup of pasta water)
- Chicken: 3 cups cooked, diced or shredded (use chicken breast or thighs)
- Alfredo Sauce: 2 jars (15 oz each) of your favorite brand
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce: 1 cup
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling rotini according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly by pan-frying or baking. If already cooked, shred or dice it.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Add salt and pepper. For extra creaminess, mix in some of the reserved pasta water.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional Broil: If you’d like a golden crust, remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Garnish & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Pasta continues to cook in the oven, so keep it slightly firm.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Grating your own Parmesan and mozzarella will melt better and have a richer flavor.
Helpful Tips:
- Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water; it helps adjust the sauce consistency.
- Chicken Alternatives: You can use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken for a fun twist.
- Broil Cautiously: If broiling the top for a crispy finish, watch it closely to avoid burning.
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free
Notes:
- For a lighter version, swap Alfredo sauce with a low-fat option or use Greek yogurt.
- You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted vegetables for a flavor boost.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Calcium: 300mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the pasta dish a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
- What if my sauce is too thick? Add a bit of milk or the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to bring back the creaminess.
Related Recipes:
If you loved this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, you might enjoy these other comforting pasta dishes:
Conclusion:
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a surefire way to satisfy your comfort food cravings. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to customize, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners with loved ones. Enjoy!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken. This dish has become a staple in households because of its rich flavors and comforting texture.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 pound rotini, cooked and drained (reserving 1 cup of pasta water)
- Chicken: 3 cups cooked, diced or shredded (use chicken breast or thighs)
- Alfredo Sauce: 2 jars (15 oz each) of your favorite brand
- Garlic Parmesan Sauce: 1 cup
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling rotini according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly by pan-frying or baking. If already cooked, shred or dice it.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Add salt and pepper. For extra creaminess, mix in some of the reserved pasta water.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional Broil: If you’d like a golden crust, remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Garnish & Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, swap Alfredo sauce with a low-fat option or use Greek yogurt.
- You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted vegetables for a flavor boost.