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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4 from 22 reviews

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe combines crispy baked Parmesan-coated chicken breasts with tender bow-tie pasta coated in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, accented with roasted broccoli florets. It’s a quick and delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that appeals to the whole family.

Ingredients

Chicken and Broccoli

  • 2 medium chicken breasts (about 16 oz total, sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 pieces)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (divided, or melted butter)
  • 2-3 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/4 cup marinara sauce
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

Pasta and Sauce

  • 8 ounces bow-tie pasta
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage (or parsley)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Make Parmesan Chicken: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and spray a large baking sheet with oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Coating: In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of salt thoroughly.
  3. Coat Chicken: Lightly brush 1 tablespoon of avocado oil onto each chicken half. Dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on one side of the baking sheet. Lightly spray a little more oil on top of the chicken for extra crispness.
  4. Add Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets on the other side of the baking sheet. Drizzle the broccoli with the remaining avocado oil and season with salt to taste.
  5. Bake Initial Stage: Bake the chicken and broccoli in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  6. Add Toppings and Continue Baking: Remove the baking sheet, brush the chicken breasts with marinara sauce, then sprinkle 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Rotate the broccoli florets for even cooking, then return the sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese melts and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Cook Pasta: While the chicken and broccoli bake, prepare the bow-tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  8. Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In a large sauté pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and toast for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  9. Build Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and milk, then add dried sage and salt to taste. Whisk the mixture continuously for 4-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  10. Finish Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  11. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring gently to coat the noodles evenly.
  12. Add Cheese and Broccoli: Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the roasted broccoli florets into the pasta mixture.
  13. Serve: Plate the creamy garlic Parmesan pasta topped with a piece of the Parmesan-crusted chicken breast. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!

Notes

  • For a crispier chicken crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Substitute milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
  • Fresh parsley can be used instead of dried sage for a brighter herb flavor.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.