Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is your new weeknight go-to. It's packed with flavor, ready in under 30 minutes, and effortlessly satisfies those pasta cravings. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet stunning dish – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add Flavor: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. If using, pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine & Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and the chopped basil. Toss everything together until well combined. Add a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Garnish & Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
Cooking Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use good quality Parmesan: The quality of the Parmesan cheese makes a difference in the overall taste of the dish. Opt for a freshly grated, high-quality Parmesan for the best results.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and garlic to your liking.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This easy parmesan chicken pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of delicious, healthy meals that are quick to prepare – perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting and satisfying dinner without the fuss. Enjoy!