Delicious Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta in 25 Minutes

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Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta has become my go-to dish for quick dinners. This easy cheesy garlic chicken dish combines tender chicken with a creamy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an irresistible comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be able to whip up this mouthwatering meal in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta is not only simple to prepare, but it also offers a wealth of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick preparation time—ready in just 25 minutes!
Rich and creamy garlic sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully.
Versatile—can be made with various pasta types such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick cheesy chicken pasta option.
Customizable—add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Suitable for gluten-free diets with the right pasta choice.

Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

8 oz pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Cook the Pasta
1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Make the Cheese Sauce
1. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
2. Add Cheeses: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine and Serve
1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the cheesy garlic sauce.
2. Serve: Divide the cheesy chicken pasta among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly grated cheese for the best meltability and flavor.
Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy.
Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
This dish is great for meal prep; just store the components separately until you’re ready to eat.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

A crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

To store your Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from thickening too much. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep and quick lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta

What is cheesy garlic chicken pasta?

This dish is a creamy pasta meal featuring chicken, garlic, and cheese, making it a comforting and flavorful option for dinner.

Can I make cheesy garlic chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cheesy garlic chicken pasta?

Ensure you do not overcook the chicken or pasta, and always use high-quality cheese for the best flavor in your creamy garlic pasta with chicken.

Variations of Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

Make a Cheesy garlic fettuccine with chicken for a different pasta shape.
Try a Cheesy garlic chicken pasta bake by adding breadcrumbs on top and baking until golden.
Transform it into a low-carb version by using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
Add grilled chicken for a Cheesy garlic pasta with grilled chicken version that enhances the smoky flavor.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken or Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake. You can also explore Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake for a comforting meal option.