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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for College Students Cooking on a Budget

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for College Students Cooking on a Budget

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and budget-friendly dinner that combines tender seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Designed with college students and budget-conscious families in mind, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor using affordable pantry staples and simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces 340g pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon salt
For the Chicken:
  • 2 medium chicken breasts diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 to 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Extra parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Colander
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Whisk
  • Cheese grater (if using fresh parmesan)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic butter mixture and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a roux.
  6. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens.
  7. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
  9. Add the drained pasta and toss until evenly coated in the garlic parmesan sauce.
  10. If needed, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  11. Garnish with parsley, extra parmesan cheese, and black pepper before serving.

Notes

Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a more affordable option.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese creates the smoothest and most flavorful sauce.
For extra vegetables, add broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas.
To make the dish spicy, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
This recipe is excellent for meal prep and can be portioned into individual containers for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.