Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

Cooking chicken pasta allows you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken thighs, flavorful garlic, and rich Parmesan creates a dish that feels indulgent but is simple enough for a weeknight. Every time I sauté garlic and sear chicken, the whole kitchen fills with an aroma that reminds me of cozy family dinners. It’s those little moments in the kitchen that spark joy and creativity.

Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta becomes your go-to dish when you want something satisfying yet straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of your time, you can create a balanced meal that pleases everyone at the table. Once you try this recipe, it will occupy a permanent spot in your rotation.

Let’s dive into the details of making this garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, transforming ordinary ingredients into something special!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Fundamentals

Garlic Parmesan chicken pasta ticks all the boxes – it’s rich in flavor, quick to prepare, and doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. You can customize it by adding vegetables or changing the pasta type, making this a versatile recipe for any home cook. This dish utilizes a blend of chicken stock and milk to create a creamy sauce that envelops every strand of pasta, while the garlic elevates the taste to the next level.

When cooking pasta, the right technique ensures it comes out perfectly every time. Using a large skillet not only makes it easier to stir but also allows you to combine ingredients seamlessly. The balance of sautéing the chicken first adds depth of flavor and color, setting the stage for a delicious sauce.

Preparation/setup

Prepare your ingredients before you start cooking. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and measure out your stock and milk. Grate the Parmesan cheese to ensure it melts easily into the sauce. Since this dish cooks quickly, having everything ready allows you to maintain the right cooking pace.

To cook, gather a large deep skillet or a frying pan. You’ll need it to sear the chicken and combine everything into one dish. This not only saves time on cleanup but also enhances the flavors as everything melds together while cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz linguine (or another long pasta)
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole, skim, or unsweetened oat)
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus extra for serving
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
• Pinch red-pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Season the chicken chunks with salt and pepper. In a large deep skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another minute, then transfer to a plate to rest.
2. Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with chicken stock and milk, scraping up browned bits, and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add dry linguine, submerging it in the liquid. Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until almost tender. Return chicken and any juices to the pan and simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in ½ cup of Parmesan until melted. If using, add baby spinach and allow to wilt for about 30 seconds.
5. Adjust sauce consistency with milk or stock as needed. Serve topped with remaining Parmesan and a pinch of red-pepper flakes.

Cooking with Confidence

Technique

When it comes to garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, mastering a few techniques can set you up for success. Searing the chicken before adding any liquids develops a deeper flavor in the final dish. The Maillard reaction happening during this step enhances the overall taste, making sure that each bite is satisfying.

As you cook the pasta directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the flavors while thickening the sauce. This method integrates the pasta into the dish seamlessly, allowing the starch released from the pasta to meld with your garlic and stock sauce, creating the perfect creamy texture.

Tips/tricks

For the best results, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents the meat from stewing in its juices and guarantees a nice sear. Equally, avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.

When stirring the pasta, do so gently to avoid breaking it apart. Turn it occasionally to ensure even cooking. Adjusting the sauce’s consistency with additional milk or stock gives you control, enabling it to meet your desired creaminess.

Adding Flair to Your Pasta

Perfecting results

After mastering the basic garlic Parmesan chicken pasta recipe, consider ways to elevate it. Adding vegetables such as red bell peppers or zucchini not only enhances nutrition but also introduces color and texture. You can sauté them alongside the garlic to add a new dimension to your dish.

For those looking for more depth, experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil or thyme lends a fresh note, balancing the richer elements of the garlic and cream. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish and offers a delightful acidity that elevates the flavors.

Troubleshooting/variations

Sometimes pasta may clump together or turn mushy. To prevent this, stir the pasta frequently during cooking. If it ends up too thick, simply add more milk or chicken stock little by little until reaching your preferred sauce consistency.

If you have leftover ingredients, consider using them in variations. For instance, using grilled chicken from a previous meal can cut down on prep time. Similarly, adapting the sauce to a tomato base instead of cream is an option that offers a new flavor profile entirely.

Serving It Right

Serving/presentation

Presentation can elevate your garlic Parmesan chicken pasta from ordinary to impressive. Use a shallow bowl to showcase the dish beautifully. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a pop of color. For added charm, finish with a few fresh basil leaves to introduce a splash of green.

This dish pairs wonderfully with breadsticks or a simple side salad, adding a balanced meal to your table. The creamy pasta shines as the star, but accompanying sides that are light and fresh will enhance the overall dining experience.

Pairings/storage

Although pairing with wine is off the table, garlic Parmesan chicken pasta goes well with light salads and roasted vegetables. Complement with garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate or serve alongside steamed broccoli for a healthy touch.

For storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delightful meal even when life gets busy. Reheating can be done gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or stock to revive the creaminess as you warm it up.

Creating a garlic Parmesan chicken pasta not only satisfies your cravings but also enables you to explore cooking with confidence. With its approachable techniques and customizable options, you can make this dish your own. Dive into the experience, and let every bite remind you of the joy of home-cooked meals.

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