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Hi, I’m Chloe—welcome to my kitchen! I started this blog to share the joy, comfort, and creativity that cooking brings into my life. Some of my best memories were made while stirring a pot, baking something sweet, or sneaking a taste of cookie dough. Each recipe I post is something I’ve truly loved making and eating, from cozy weeknight dinners to nostalgic desserts. I believe cooking shouldn’t be perfect—it should be fun, heartfelt, and full of little happy messes. This space is for inspiration, connection, and delicious moments shared with others. I’m so glad you’re here—let’s make something wonderful together.
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Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Savor the rich flavors of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet with this easy recipe. Learn to create a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for any dinner table.
Ingredients
2 pounds (907 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast , cut into thin cutlets
1/3 cup (80 ml) Italian style bread capple juicebs
1/4 cup (60 ml) grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) salt
2 tablespoon (30 ml) s olive oil, plus more as needed
16 ounce (454 g) s penne pasta, uncooked
6 tablespoon (90 ml) s butter
4 cloves garlic, pressed
2 tablespoon (30 ml) s flour
2 cup (480 ml) s heavy cream
1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
1/4 cup (60 ml) grated parmesan
1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) pepper
Chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Prepare the penne pasta following the instructions on the packaging.
2. Slice or flatten the chicken breasts into thin pieces. In a bowl, combine Italian-style bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with this mixture.
3. Warm a large, heavy skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes without disturbing. Turn the chicken over and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Take the chicken out and set it aside. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it lays flat without overcrowding the pan. Add more olive oil if needed to prevent the skillet from drying out.
4. After removing the chicken, add butter to the skillet, stirring until it melts. Add the pressed garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then incorporate the flour and mix thoroughly.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring until smooth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce begins to thicken, around 60-90 seconds. Add the remaining salt and pepper, then slowly blend in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture back to a simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes before tossing it with the cooked and drained penne pasta.
6. The chicken can be served whole or sliced on top of the pasta, with chopped parsley sprinkled on top if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
1. For a richer garlic flavor, consider increasing the number of pressed garlic cloves in the sauce.
2. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with additional chicken broth.
3. To prevent the pasta from sticking, toss it with a little olive oil after draining.
4. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.
Getting Started with Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet
Fundamentals
Launching into the world of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is an adventure in flavor. This dish combines the creamy, savory elements of cheese and garlic with the hearty texture of chicken and pasta. The secret to getting it right starts with understanding your ingredients. The combination of boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into thin cutlets ensures even cooking and absorption of flavors. The Italian-style bread crumbs, enriched with grated parmesan and garlic powder, form the perfect crust on the chicken. This crust is not just for texture; it seals in the juices, making each bite a delight. For more about creating delicious crusts, explore our crust techniques guide.
Understanding the fundamentals also involves recognizing the role of each ingredient. Olive oil is the base fat, crucial for cooking the chicken without burning it. It adds a subtle flavor that complements the garlic and parmesan. The penne pasta, cooked to perfection, serves as the ideal base, capturing every drop of the creamy sauce. Speaking of sauce, the mix of butter, pressed garlic, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream comes together in a symphony of flavors. This sauce not only binds the dish but also elevates its taste. For a deeper dive into sauce preparation, check out our sauce preparation tips.
Preparation/setup
Preparation is key to mastering the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet. Begin by organizing your workspace with all ingredients measured and ready. Slice or flatten the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and salt. This mixture is crucial for that perfect crust. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly, pressing the mixture into the meat for maximum adherence.
Next, warm a large, heavy skillet with olive oil over medium heat. The choice of skillet matters; a heavy one retains heat better, allowing for consistent cooking. Add the chicken to the skillet, cooking each side for 4-5 minutes. This step is where the magic happens—the crust forms and the juices are sealed in. If you’re cooking in batches, ensure each piece of chicken lays flat without overcrowding the pan. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents steaming, which can make the crust soggy. For more skillet tips, visit our skillet tips section.
Technique for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet
Technique
The technique behind Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet involves both finesse and timing. After setting the chicken aside, use the same skillet to create the sauce. Begin by melting butter and adding pressed garlic. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling the start of something delicious. Quickly add the flour and stir until it forms a smooth paste. This step creates a roux, which thickens the sauce.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth consistency. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken naturally. The addition of salt and pepper enhances the flavor profile, while the heavy cream adds richness. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for a few minutes. This technique ensures a creamy, cohesive sauce that clings to the pasta. For more on perfecting sauces, see our sauce techniques guide.
Tips/tricks
Mastering this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet dish also involves a few key tips and tricks. First, when cooking the chicken, resist the urge to move it around. Letting it sit undisturbed ensures a golden, crispy crust. When preparing the sauce, keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the garlic. The garlic’s flavor should be fragrant, not overpowering.
Another trick is to gradually blend the heavy cream into the sauce, stirring continuously. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth texture. Finally, when tossing the pasta with the sauce, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid diluting the sauce. For additional tricks and hacks, don’t miss our cooking hacks section.
Optimization for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet
Perfecting results
Perfecting the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is about balancing flavors and textures. The chicken should be juicy with a crispy exterior, while the pasta envelops a luscious sauce. Achieving this requires attention to detail in each step, from the initial coating of the chicken to the final simmering of the sauce.
One way to elevate the dish is by using fresh, high-quality parmesan cheese. It melts better and offers a more robust flavor than pre-grated options. Additionally, keeping the skillet at a consistent medium heat prevents burning while allowing flavors to meld. If you’re looking to enhance your cooking results, explore our perfecting techniques.
Troubleshooting/variations
Even the best cooks encounter challenges. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer. For chicken that isn’t as crispy as desired, ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the chicken.
Variations can add a personal touch to this classic dish. Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. For more variation ideas, visit our creative variations page.
Serving Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet
Serving/presentation
Presentation elevates the dining experience, and for the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet, it’s all about the details. Once the pasta and sauce are combined, serve the chicken either sliced or whole on top. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma.
For an elegant touch, serve the dish in a shallow bowl, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with sauce. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures each bite is flavorful. For more on presentation tips, check out our presentation tips section.
Pairings/storage
The Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. These sides add contrast and balance to the richness of the dish. For a complete dining experience, consider serving with a refreshing apple juice or a mild white beverage.
For leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the sauce’s integrity. For more storage tips, visit our storage tips section.
If you’re looking to elevate your grilling game, be sure to try this delicious Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken recipe that’s bursting with tropical flavors.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet is a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques. By following this guide, you can recreate a dish that is both comforting and gourmet. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta offers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With these insights and tips, you’re well-equipped to master this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Skillet recipe and bring a taste of culinary excellence to your table.
