Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a culinary delight that dances on your taste buds and could easily make you swoon. Imagine juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, nestled atop a bed of al dente pasta, all enveloped in a creamy herb-infused sauce that’ll have you questioning how many helpings are too many.
Every time I prepare Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta, I am transported back to summer barbecues where laughter filled the air and everyone was eagerly waiting for dinner. There’s something about the aroma of grilled chicken mingling with fresh herbs that just feels like home. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that will leave your guests raving.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether casual or elegant, making meal prep a breeze
Ingredients for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; they add a fantastic aromatic touch to the dish.
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Mixed Fresh Herbs: A combination of basil, parsley, and thyme elevates the flavor profile; don’t skimp on these green goodies!
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Pasta of Choice: I recommend using penne or fusilli to catch all that creamy sauce; pick whatever pasta floats your boat.
For the Sauce:
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Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creates that luscious texture in your sauce; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you prefer lighter options.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the sauce depth and umami; go for quality cheese for maximum flavor impact.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up and balances the creaminess beautifully; it’s like sunshine in a bowl.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
Marinate the Chicken: Begin by combining olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add your chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least one hour – overnight if you can wait!
Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place your marinated chicken on it. Grill each side for about six to seven minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Cook the Pasta: While your chicken is grilling away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your favorite pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain it well when done.
Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in heavy cream. Add freshly grated parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Squeeze in some lemon juice for brightness while seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine Everything: Slice your grilled chicken into strips. Toss your drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce, then add those glorious chicken slices on top. Mix gently until everything is coated in that divine creaminess.
Garnish & Serve: Finally, sprinkle additional herbs or parmesan over the dish before serving. Grab some forks – it’s time to dig into this mouthwatering Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta!
Enjoy every bite as flavors collide like fireworks on New Year’s Eve! You might even want to keep this recipe handy for those ‘I need comfort food’ days because who doesn’t love a good pasta night?
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly loaded herb grilled chicken pasta, start by searing the chicken first until it’s golden brown. While the chicken cooks, boil your pasta and prepare the sauce simultaneously for an efficient cooking experience that maximizes flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry. For instance, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb option or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Spice it up with your favorite herbs!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover loaded herb grilled chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always marinate the chicken for at least an hour to enhance its flavor and tenderness
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t replicate
- Remember not to overcrowd your pan while cooking; this ensures even browning and prevents steaming
I remember the first time I made loaded herb grilled chicken pasta for my friends; they were practically licking their plates clean! Their enthusiastic compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar that night.
FAQs:
What is Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines grilled chicken marinated in a blend of herbs with pasta. This recipe often features fresh vegetables, garlic, and a creamy sauce, making it perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of flavors creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. You can customize this dish by adding your favorite herbs or veggies, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
How do I prepare the chicken for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
To prepare the chicken for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta, start by marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley. Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Slicing the chicken after grilling adds a nice presentation to your pasta dish.
Can I make Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and grill the chicken in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the ingredients together in a pan or microwave. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners when you want something tasty without much fuss.
What can I serve with Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta pairs well with various sides such as garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for added nutrition. A light vinaigrette drizzled over your salad enhances the overall dining experience by balancing out the rich flavors of the pasta dish.
Conclusion for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta:
In conclusion, Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta offers a flavorful and filling meal that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. The combination of marinated grilled chicken, fresh herbs, and tender pasta creates an unforgettable dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the delightful flavors and ease of preparation that this dish brings!
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that brings together succulent marinated grilled chicken and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a velvety, herb-infused cream sauce. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Each bite captures the essence of summer barbecues, ensuring you’ll savor every moment.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (basil, parsley, thyme)
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Marinate chicken by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts and let marinate for at least one hour.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F).
- While grilling, boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy; add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips. Toss drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet and layer chicken on top. Mix gently until coated.
- Serve garnished with additional herbs or Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or spinach into the pasta. - Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat on low heat with a splash of olive oil.
