Are you looking for a cozy dinner that feels a bit indulgent but takes less than half an hour to prepare? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti! This delightful dish features tender, golden chicken bites nestled in a rich, silky garlic-parmesan cream sauce that envelops perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether you’re brainstorming quick weeknight dinners or seeking a comforting meal for the weekends, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and cheesy goodness. It melds simplicity with satisfaction, making it a favorite for busy families and culinary enthusiasts alike.
The appeal of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti lies not only in its comforting qualities but also in its versatility. This dish serves as a blank canvas which can be dressed up with fresh herbs, vegetables, or a splash of spice to cater to your personal palate. Packed with rich flavors and a delightful creamy texture, it’s bound to become a staple you return to time and again. What’s even better? It’s made with simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, making it a fantastic choice for those last-minute dinner dilemmas.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for cooking novices and guarantees a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- Flavor-Packed: Rich garlic, creamy parmesan, and tender chicken blend in a way that pleases every family member.
- Comfort Food at its Best: Ideal for cozy nights in, this dish satisfies cravings for hearty pasta dinners.
- Adaptable: Easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flavor and nutrition.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make enough to enjoy throughout the week, and the flavors only get better!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Creating your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti begins with a little organization in the kitchen. Start by gathering all your ingredients, as having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and efficient. You will need a large skillet to cook the chicken and sauce, a pot for boiling the spaghetti, and measuring cups for portioning your ingredients. Don’t forget your utensils! A cutting board and chef’s knife will help you slice the chicken, while a spatula or tongs will be useful for flipping the chicken and mixing everything together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly. Season the pieces generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor. It’s essential to season the chicken adequately to ensure each bite is delicious.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken chunks to the skillet. Cook the chicken for approximately 6–8 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to boil and add the spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help thin out the sauce later and create a perfect consistency once mixed with the pasta.
Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. As the butter melts, add in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant — careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Combine
Stir in the grated parmesan cheese into the simmering cream sauce. Keep stirring until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up, achieving the desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Spaghetti
Now, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss it in the creamy sauce. Then, carefully return the sautéed chicken to the pan. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and mix everything until well combined, allowing every piece of chicken and pasta to be coated in that luscious sauce.
Variations
- Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful touch and extra nutrition.
- Spices: Kick it up a notch with red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken to simplify the process.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Pair with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired experience.
Tips
- Always taste your sauce before adding more salt; the parmesan cheese already adds saltiness.
- If you like a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer to reduce a bit before adding the spaghetti.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 600 per serving
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat gently and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic, or stir in some hot sauce according to your taste.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, or for a lighter version, try Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of chicken broth.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti is a delectable recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction into your kitchen without the fuss. With its creamy texture, delightful flavors, and simple ingredients, it stands as a beacon of weeknight cooking. We hope you’ve enjoyed this culinary journey and are excited to bring this recipe into your home. Don’t hesitate to share your personal twists or experiences in the comments below—after all, food is best enjoyed together!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Cheesy Spaghetti is a deliciously easy dinner that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season the pieces generously with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken chunks to the skillet and cook for approximately 6–8 minutes until golden brown.
- While cooking the chicken, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat, add butter and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Then pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add a little reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and return the chicken to the pan. Mix until well combined and serve garnished with parsley.
Notes
Make sure to taste your sauce before adding more salt. The parmesan adds saltiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 per serving
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Protein: 40 g