Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: A Lazy Cook’s Delight

Name: Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; 12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta; 4 tbsp butter; 2 tsp dry shallots; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour; 3 cups heavy cream; 12 oz shredded parmesan; 1/4 cup pasta water; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder

So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. I mean, who wants to slay in the kitchen for hours when you can whip up something as delicious as Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta in under 30 minutes? It’s like magic, but better because you get to eat it. Trust me, your taste buds are about to have a party, and I’m inviting you along for the ride.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Let’s be real. This recipe is fool-proof. I could probably make it with my eyes closed and one hand tied behind my back—okay, maybe not, but you get the picture. Even if you burn toast on a regular basis, you will not mess this up. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of garlicky goodness that exudes a cozy vibe perfect for those lazy nights when you just want to dive into some comfort food. No fancy chef skills required. Just bring your appetite and maybe a glass of wine—because why not?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ready to get cooking? Here’s what you need to raid your kitchen for to make this masterpiece happen:

2 tbsp olive oil (Costabile Brand—use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off)
1 1/2 lb Springer Mountain Farms chicken breast (a.k.a. clucking good)
1 1/2 tsp paprika (OliveNation, spice up your life)
1 1/2 tsp oregano (does anyone even know what this is?)
1 tsp garlic powder (OliveNation, garlic lovers unite)
1/2 tsp thyme (for a dash of fancy)
1/2 tsp black pepper (because flavor)
1/2 tsp salt (the magical seasoning)
12 oz gluten-free farfalle pasta (or whatever pasta floats your boat)
4 tbsp butter (more butter, more happiness)
2 tsp dry shallots (use code 15GOLDENGK for 15% off—seriously)
2 tsp Italian seasoning (buon appetito)
1/2 cup chicken broth (get that flavor in there)
2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour (if you care about your gluten intake)
3 cups heavy cream (yes, you read that right)
12 oz shredded parmesan (the more cheese the merrier)
1/4 cup pasta water (don’t worry, we’ll use it wisely)
1/2 tsp salt (because again, seasoning)
1 tsp garlic powder (because one spoonful is just not enough)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get down to business. Grab your materials, and let’s stir this delicious dish into existence with these easy steps.

In a large pot, boil pasta according to the directions on the box for al dente. You know, that perfect state where pasta is still slightly firm? Yes, that one.
Place all chicken seasonings into a small bowl and mix them together: paprika, oregano, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Channel your inner chef and mix like you mean it.
Time to get physical. Pound your chicken down slightly to thin it out. Feel free to take out any frustrations from the day. Just don’t go too hard on it.
Season the chicken on both sides with the seasoning you just mixed. Rub it in and show that chicken some love.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Get it nice and hot—no one likes cold oil.
Once hot, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side. Let it sizzle like the star it is.
After searing, flip the chicken, lower the heat slightly to medium-low, and slap a lid on that pan. Cook it for another 10 to 12 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. We want it safe as well as tasty!
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a cutting board. Don’t worry, it’ll wait patiently.
Toss in the butter into the pan and let it melt. You know you want to see that glorious butter action.
Once the butter is melted, add the pasta seasonings: shallots, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir it well and let it simmer for about one minute.
Time to bring in the flour. Add it to the pan and stir, scraping the bottom to catch all the good stuff.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Whisk it until you have a smooth and creamy sauce that practically begs you to dive in.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into that beautiful sauce. Smile because it’s going to get even better.
Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. You want creamy but not too thick.
Pour in the cooked pasta and toss it in that divine sauce to coat every noodle perfectly.
If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add that pasta water one tablespoon at a time to thin it out. You got this!
Slice the chicken breast like the culinary pro you are and add those slices to the pasta. Giving it a final gentle stir should do the trick.
Serve it up and prepare for the ooohs and aaahs from everyone lucky enough to partake in your creation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Before you get too comfortable, let’s cover a few common mishaps that can happen along the way. Trust me, I’ve been there and done that.

Not boiling pasta correctly: Al dente or mushy? Learn to love the former. We don’t want pasta that turns into a gooey mess that slides off your fork.
Overcooking chicken: Nothing screams disappointment like dry chicken. Seriously, treat your chicken like royalty and don’t let it cook too long.
Skipping seasonings: Oh buddy, don’t skimp on seasoning. It’s how food goes from bland to grand in seconds.
Not scraping the bottom of the pan: All those delicious brown bits packed with flavor? Yes, those. Use your spatula and don’t leave them behind.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Now, if you’re like me and tend to forget what you already have in your pantry, here are some super simple alternatives or substitutions to keep you in the cooking game.

Chicken: Not feeling the bird? Use shrimp or even tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Just adjust the cooking times because shrimp cooks way faster.
Pasta: Gluten free is cool, but regular pasta works too. Or go wild and use zoodles or any other veggie noodles. Who said you can’t be healthy while enjoying creamy goodness?
Heavy cream: Don’t have it? No problem. You can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream substitute if you want to lighten things up. But let’s be real, who really wants to do that?
Cheese: Not a fan of parmesan? Go for mozzarella for that classic pizza vibe or even some cheddar if you’re feeling daring.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Okay, let’s answer some burning questions you might have while making this dish.

Can I use margarine instead of butter? Well, technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? You deserve better than margarine.

What if I don’t like garlic? I can’t relate, but you do you. You can skip the garlic powder, but just so you know, that’s like missing out on the best party of the year.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? You sure can! Just be prepared to reheat it with a little splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy magic.

Is this recipe dairy-free? Nah, not unless you make some serious swaps. But if you find a good dairy-free substitute for cream and cheese, let me know!

Can I double this recipe? Go big or go home, right? Just be sure your pan is big enough to handle that extra amount. You might need to do it in batches.

What can I serve this with? Pair it with a simple salad or some garlic bread to soak up that heavenly sauce. You absolutely can’t go wrong.

Can this be made vegan? Absolutely! Just swap the chicken for chickpeas, the pasta for a vegan variety, and the cream for coconut milk, and you are all set!

Final Thoughts

Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it! Grab that fork, dig in, and bask in the glory of your Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Don’t forget to pat yourself on the back because let’s be honest; you just made something delicious without breaking a sweat. Now enjoy the compliments as they roll in, and remember to keep it casual in the kitchen. Happy cooking!

Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta