Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Pasta is a popular dish enjoyed by many around the world. However, pasta can seem like an off-limits food for those on a low-carb diet. But fear not; you can enjoy your favorite pasta dishes without straying from your low-carb lifestyle. This guide will show you how to make the perfect low-carb garlic parmesan chicken pasta that is both delicious and healthy.

Ingredients

To make this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe, you will need:
• 1 pound of zucchini noodles (also known as “zoodles”)
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cloves
Looking for a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying pasta dish without the carb-heavy guilt? This garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe is the perfect solution. It’s packed with savory ingredients, tender chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce—all while staying low-carb to fit your healthy eating goals. Here’s how to make this delicious meal at home at an intermediate skill level.

For the chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the pasta

• 12 oz (340g) low-carb pasta (e.g., almond flour pasta or shirataki noodles)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chicken broth (optional for thinning the sauce)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the chicken

1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides.
2. Sear the chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer to a plate and cover to rest, allowing juices to redistribute. Cut into slices or bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Cook the low-carb pasta

1. Prepare pasta – Follow the instructions on your low-carb pasta packaging. Shirataki noodles must be rinsed and pan-dried, while almond flour pasta can be cooked in lightly salted boiling water for 5-6 minutes.
2. Drain and set aside – If using conventional low-carb pasta, drain well and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the garlic parmesan sauce

1. Sauté garlic: Melt the butter over medium heat in the skillet used for the chicken. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Prepare the creamy sauce – Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the mixture thicken slightly.
3. Add Parmesan—Gradually whisk in the grated cheese, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it becomes too thick, use chicken broth to thin the sauce.
4. Season—Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.

Step 4: Combine and finish

1. Mix the pasta and chicken – Add the cooked and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Warm over low heat for 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is combined and heated through.
2. Garnish and serve – Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top, and serve immediately.

Chef’s Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded Parmesan may not melt as smoothly.
• If you’re new to low-carb pasta, sample a few brands to find your favorite in taste and texture. Shirataki noodles and spaghetti squash are also great alternatives.
• When the pasta and sauce combine, toss some spinach, zucchini noodles, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is creamy, savory, and satisfying while remaining low-carb. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or an impressive meal to share. Now that you’ve mastered this low-carb classic settle into a guilt-free indulgence your family will love! Bon Appétit!

Variations to Try

This highly customizable recipe allows you to tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe:

• Keto-Friendly: For an even lower-carb version, consider swapping the low-carb pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. Both options keep the dish light and nutritious.
• Protein Boost: Add crispy bacon bits or cooked shrimp alongside the chicken for a protein-packed twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms—the rich garlic parmesan sauce pairs beautifully with veggies.
• Spicy Version: To amp up the heat, incorporate additional chili flakes, a splash of hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños.

Experimenting with these ideas will keep Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe exciting and versatile, perfect for various tastes and occasions!

Storing and Reheating your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, this meal stores well and can easily be reheated for another delicious serving.

• To store – Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 days.
• To reheat – Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this may cause the sauce to separate.

This recipe also works well for meal prep, making it convenient to enjoy a flavorful, low-carb meal any day of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
   Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, can save you time. Shred or cube the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet when combining it with the sauce and pasta.
2. What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from curdling?
   Keep the stovetop heat medium or low when adding the heavy cream to prevent the sauce from curdling. Avoid boiling the cream, as high heat can cause it to separate. If reheating, warm the dish gently and stir frequently.
3. Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, you can make a dairy-free version! Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
4. What other herbs can I use for seasoning?
   While Italian seasoning works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, basil, oregano, or rosemary for a personalized flavor profile.
5. Is it possible to freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe?
   Although the chicken and pasta freeze well, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. If you’d like to freeze it, store the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce. When reheating, prepare a fresh batch of sauce to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Addressing these common questions will help you feel more confident adapting the recipe to your needs and preferences. Enjoy the flexibility and convenience this dish offers!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta dish further, consider pairing it with complementary sides and beverages for a complete meal experience. Here are a few ideas to inspire your menu:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette featuring mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: For a low-carb option, make garlic butter chaffless bread or almond flour-based garlic breadsticks for a satisfying crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic are excellent accompaniments to this dish.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the garlic parmesan flavors. If you avoid alcohol, sparkling water with a splash of lemon also works well.
• Appetizer Options: Start with a simple caprese salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for added Italian flair.

By thoughtfully choosing sides and pairings, you can create a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements your flavorful garlic parmesan pasta dish.

Tips for Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Season Generously: Season the chicken and sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: When using low-carb pasta, cook it just until al dente ensures it retains a pleasant texture and doesn’t become mushy when coated in the sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder can work in a pinch, fresh minced garlic delivers a more robust and aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
• Be Patient with Thickening: Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens to your desired consistency. Rushing this step can lead to a sauce that’s too thin.
• Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a touch of extra-grated Parmesan over the top adds color and enhances the flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a restaurant-quality dish that will always impress!

Variations to Try

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can customize it with changes or additions to suit different preferences or fit various dietary needs. Here are some variations you might want to try:

• Seafood Twist: Replace the chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood-infused version. Sear the seafood separately, then toss it into the pasta at the final stage of mixing.
• Bacon Upgrade: Crispy bacon crumbles added to the dish enhance the smoky and savory notes of the garlic parmesan sauce.
• Cheesy Goodness: For an indulgent option, mix shredded mozzarella or provolone into the sauce for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Vegetable Medley: To make this an even heartier dish, fold in sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts with the pasta.

These variations diversify your mealtime options, allow you to experiment with classic flavors, and make the recipe your own!

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, proper storage will help maintain its flavor and texture for your next meal. Here are some tips to store and reheat the dish effectively:

• Refrigeration: Place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This method keeps the dish fresh while preventing it from drying out.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in individual portions using freezer-safe containers. Be aware that cream-based sauces can separate when thawed, so reheating gently and stirring frequently is key.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the dish on the stove over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or cream to the sauce to restore its creamy consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking or uneven heating.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta even as leftovers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some additional common questions and answers to help you make the most of this versatile recipe:

1. Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, making a dairy-free version of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is possible. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut or cashew-based cream, and replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or a plant-based Parmesan substitute. These adjustments maintain the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.
2. What can I use instead of chicken?
   This recipe works beautifully with other proteins if you need a chicken-free option. For a vegetarian twist, try using cooked turkey, ground beef, or cubed tofu. These alternatives can add a unique flavor profile while keeping Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe satisfying and nutritious.
3. How can I enhance the garlic flavor?
   For those who love a strong garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic beforehand. Roasted garlic adds a sweet, caramelized depth to the sauce while intensifying the overall flavor. Mash the roasted garlic cloves and blend them into the cream sauce.
4. What type of pasta should I choose?
   Traditional pasta works wonderfully, but options like zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or chickpea-based pasta are excellent if you’re looking for low-carb or gluten-free alternatives. These substitutes pair well with the creamy sauce while catering to specific dietary preferences.

Addressing these additional questions will equip you to adapt and optimize the recipe to your liking! Whether dairy-free, high-protein, or garlic-packed, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe offers endless creative possibilities.