What makes the perfect weeknight dinner? A delicious homemade pasta dish with tender chicken and parmesan cheese is always a family favorite, especially when it’s quick and easy to prepare. With sautéed chicken and a blend of savory flavors, this easy recipe is sure to become a staple. Save this idea for a tasty meal anytime.

Two Plates of Pasta with Chicken and Parmesan Cheese on the Side, One is In

Introduction

This delightful dish is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and presentation, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, savory parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, all brought together with a hint of creativity, showcases the beauty of everyday ingredients elevated to a new level. The ease with which this meal can be prepared, coupled with the impressive results it yields, makes it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their culinary routine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a satisfying and mouth-watering experience that will leave you and your guests craving for more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The dish strikes a perfect balance between the richness of the parmesan cheese, the savory taste of the chicken, and the comforting familiarity of pasta, all of which are readily available in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its elegant presentation, the recipe is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time to prepare, making it a great option for busy evenings or last-minute invitations.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients, along with the creative presentation of serving the pasta and chicken side by side, ensures that the final dish looks and tastes like a culinary masterpiece, all achieved with remarkably little fuss.

Key Ingredients

The foundation of this dish lies in its well-chosen ingredients. You will need pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work well), boneless, skinless chicken breasts, parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best), olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, consider including some dried or fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Practical substitutions can be made based on personal preferences or dietary needs, such as using gluten-free pasta or swapping chicken with another protein source like shrimp or tofu.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the garlic, measure out the olive oil, and season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for cooking the pasta.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then set it aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary, then sauté the chopped garlic until fragrant. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish. You can also add some sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
4. Step 4: For the final touches, slice the parmesan cheese and have it ready to serve on the side. To plate, place a portion of the cooked pasta on one side of the plate, arrange the sliced chicken on the other side, and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top. Drizzle with any remaining garlic and herb sauce from the skillet, and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh parmesan cheese and good olive oil make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and has a more pleasing texture.
• Let the chicken rest: This ensures the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial, especially when cooking the chicken and pasta. For the chicken, cook over medium-high heat to achieve a nice brown on the outside, then reduce the heat to ensure it cooks through without burning. For pasta, a rolling boil is necessary, but be sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking. The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C), and pasta should be cooked until it still has a bit of bite or chew.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the crispy exterior of the chicken and the slight crunch of al dente pasta. To achieve this, ensure the chicken is cooked at the right temperature and that the pasta is not overcooked. Additional crunch can be added with toasted nuts or seeds sprinkled on top of the parmesan cheese for extra texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Marinate the chicken beforehand: Even a quick 30-minute marination in olive oil, garlic, and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor.
• Use a cast-iron skillet: These retain heat well and can achieve a beautiful sear on the chicken.
• Save pasta water: Before draining the pasta, save a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be added to the garlic and herb sauce to create a creamy, well-balanced sauce.

Storage Tips

• Leftover storage: Cool the chicken and pasta separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating tips: Reheat the chicken and pasta separately to prevent drying out. The chicken can be reheated in the oven, while the pasta can be quickly sautéed in a pan with some olive oil.
• Shelf life: Cooked pasta and chicken are best consumed within a few days. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a potluck or as a care package, consider packaging the components separately. Place the cooked pasta in a microwave-safe container, slice the cooked chicken and pack it in a separate container, and wrap the parmesan cheese in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Include a small bottle of olive oil, a sprinkle of dried herbs, and a garlic clove for added flavor. This thoughtful presentation allows the recipient to assemble and enjoy the dish at their convenience.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends like Italian seasoning, paprika, or a bit of cayenne pepper to give the chicken a unique flavor.
• Creative toppings: Add some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sliced olives on top of the pasta for added flavor and nutrients.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, use different types of cheese like mozzarella or feta, or try whole wheat pasta for a nutritional twist.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the pasta is too hard, it may not have cooked long enough. If it’s too soft, it was overcooked. For the chicken, ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature to avoid undercooking.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of parmesan cheese, other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano can be used as substitutes.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the chicken for juices running clear and the pasta for the al dente texture. Overcooked chicken will be dry, and overcooked pasta will be mushy.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, both the cooked chicken and pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them separately for easier reheating.
• Is it gluten-free? The dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. However, always check the ingredients of the pasta and any sauces to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve larger groups. Just ensure you have enough pots and pans to cook everything efficiently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this recipe for two plates of pasta with chicken and parmesan cheese on the side offers a versatile, flavorful, and creatively presented meal that is sure to please a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. With its balance of ease, flavor, and nutritional value, it’s an excellent addition to any meal rotation. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and presentation to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations and variations with friends and family. Happy cooking!