If you’re searching for a comforting yet impressive dish to wow friends or simply treat yourself on a weeknight, look no further than this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful symphony of tender chicken, rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked gluten-free farfalle pasta, all mingling with garlic and Italian herbs to create something truly irresistible. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors and textures, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether served for family dinner or casual entertaining.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe starts with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a vital role: olive oil for searing, spices for depth, creamy cheeses and broths for richness, and gluten-free pasta to keep it inclusive without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Olive oil: Essential for searing chicken to a golden perfection while locking in juiciness.
- Chicken breast: The star protein, providing tender and flavorful bites in the final dish.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness that complements the garlic and Parmesan nicely.
- Oregano: Brings earthy, Mediterranean warmth to the spice mix.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the garlicky notes throughout without overpowering.
- Thyme: Offers a light, herbal freshness that balances the richness.
- Black pepper and salt: Fundamental seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Gluten-free farfalle pasta: Beautiful bow-tie shapes that hold sauce perfectly, great for those avoiding gluten.
- Butter: Creates a luscious base for the sauce, adding silky smoothness.
- Dry shallots: Provide a mild onion flavor that builds savory complexity.
- Italian seasoning: The classic herb blend that ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moistness to the sauce.
- Gluten-Free 1:1 Flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Heavy cream: The richness that makes this pasta indulgently creamy.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: The bold, nutty heart of the sauce that brings everything into harmony.
- Pasta water: A secret weapon to loosen and silkify the sauce for easier coating.
How to Make Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the gluten-free farfalle pasta until al dente—this means it should be cooked through but still have a slight bite. Drain it well and set aside because you’ll be mixing it with the sauce a little later to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mix not only enhances the chicken’s natural taste but builds a wonderful aromatic base that perfumes the entire dish.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful, golden-brown crust—that’s where rich flavor comes from. After searing, reduce the heat, cover, and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s juicy and safe to eat. Once done, remove and slice the chicken thinly.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to wash it!), melt butter and add dry shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir for a minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle in the gluten-free flour, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream, blending them until smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the sauce, creating that signature golden creaminess.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce along with the sliced chicken. Adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce slightly so it clings beautifully to the farfalle. Mix until everything is evenly coated and warm, then it’s ready for plating and enjoying.
How to Serve Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can lift this dish to another level. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil adds vibrant color and a fresh bite that contrasts the creamy sauce. For a little texture and extra zing, toss on some crushed red pepper flakes or a few toasted pine nuts.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with light salads, such as a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can round out the meal, offering variety and balance on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, twirl portions of the pasta onto warm plates using a fork and spoon to create neat nests before topping with chicken slices. Drizzle a little extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper on top, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrus burst.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is creamy, covering it tightly will prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
Freezing
Freezing cream-based pasta dishes can be a bit tricky as the texture of the sauce may change. However, if you double wrap the portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, you can freeze for up to 2 months. Plan to thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, use a gentle method like warming in a pan over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the silky sauce texture. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir gently until heated through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free farfalle?
Absolutely! Regular farfalle or any pasta shape you like can be swapped in. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, and the dish will be just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, to make it dairy-free, substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and coconut or cashew cream. Use a dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor.
What can I substitute if I don’t have dry shallots?
If dry shallots aren’t available, finely chopped onions or shallot powder can work well as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce a day in advance, then store separately in the fridge. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for best texture.
How spicy is this Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe?
This recipe is mild and comforting in flavor, focusing on aromatic herbs and creamy richness rather than heat. You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet tastes so sophisticated thanks to the flavorful seasoning and creamy sauce. Give it a try for your next dinner—you might just find a new favorite recipe to keep coming back to!
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Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy, flavorful Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts and gluten-free farfalle pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce infused with garlic and Italian seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 lb chicken breast
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Pasta
- 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta
Sauce
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 tsp dry shallots
- 1 tsp garlic powder (divided)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Gluten Free 1:1 Flour
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 12 oz shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook gluten-free farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water for the sauce.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with paprika, oregano, 1 tsp garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt.
- Sear Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown crust forms.
- Cook Chicken Through: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it thinly.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add dry shallots, the remaining 1 tsp garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly for one minute until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Sprinkle in gluten free flour and whisk to combine. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add 1/4 cup reserved pasta water and 1/2 tsp salt to adjust sauce consistency and seasoning.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly and heat through before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce butter by half.
