The smell of grilled chicken wafting through the air, infused with an array of herbs and spices, is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine twirling a forkful of Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta, where juicy chicken meets perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a creamy herb sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a flavor party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!
This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about memories. Picture a sunny afternoon spent in the backyard with friends, laughter bubbling over as you serve up plates of this vibrant pasta loaded with colorful vegetables and topped with juicy grilled chicken. Whether it’s a weekend barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to deliver smiles and satisfaction every time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends
- The burst of flavors from fresh herbs elevates the dish to gourmet status without breaking a sweat
- Its visual appeal will have your guests asking for seconds, while its versatility allows for endless ingredient swaps
Ingredients for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well here; adjust based on your guest list size.
Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves for maximum freshness and flavor in your dish.
Fresh Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall essence.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they give your sauce a punchy kick that enhances every bite.
Pasta: Use any pasta you love; I prefer penne for its ability to hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens; it gives the sauce its rich and velvety texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese brings a nutty depth that ties all flavors together.
For the Sauce:
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish, balancing the creaminess perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
Grilling the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses flavor and ensures tenderness while grilling. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot enough to sear.
Once ready, place your marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about six to seven minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and juices run clear—no one likes dry chicken!
Cooking the Pasta
While your chicken grills away like a superstar, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—trust me; no one enjoys mushy pasta! Once cooked, reserve some pasta water before draining; it’ll be handy later.
Preparing the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter before adding minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute—then pour in heavy cream along with lemon juice. Stir continuously as you let it simmer gently while thickening into luscious goodness.
Bringing It All Together
Now comes the fun part! Slice your grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them straight into that creamy skillet with cooked pasta. Toss everything together until coated beautifully with sauce—don’t forget those fresh herbs! If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Finishing Touches
Finally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over everything and give it another toss. Plate up this beauty immediately while it’s still warm! Garnish with extra herbs if you’re feeling fancy; after all, we eat with our eyes first! Enjoy every cheesy bite of Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta—it’s love at first forkful!
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 marinated chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, boil your favorite pasta. Finally, whip up a delicious sauce using fresh herbs and garlic, blending all flavors together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme, or toss in veggies such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil to keep the pasta moist and prevent sticking. Microwaving works well, but a quick stovetop warm-up is preferred for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness without overcooking
- Fresh herbs elevate the flavor significantly—don’t skimp on them!
- Always let cooked pasta cool slightly before mixing with sauce to maintain texture
Sometimes, I still remember that one dinner where my friends devoured my loaded herb grilled chicken pasta in under ten minutes. Their expressions of joy were priceless; it’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding!
FAQs:
What is Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines grilled chicken marinated in a blend of fresh herbs with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe offers a burst of flavors, thanks to the aromatic herbs and spices. It’s an easy-to-make meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner, providing both protein and carbohydrates in one satisfying plate.
How do I grill chicken for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
To grill chicken for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta, start by marinating boneless chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and your choice of fresh herbs like basil and parsley. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow it to rest before slicing it into strips to add to your pasta.
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta. Whether you prefer penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, each variety brings its own texture and flavor to the dish. Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free options if you’re looking for healthier alternatives or dietary accommodations.
What are some variations of Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta?
There are several delicious variations you can try with Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta. You can add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients. For a creamy version, incorporate Alfredo sauce or a light olive oil dressing. Adding cheese such as Parmesan or feta will enhance the flavor profile further while making it more indulgent.
Conclusion for Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta:
In summary, Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of grilled chicken with pasta. The use of fresh herbs elevates the taste while keeping it light yet satisfying. This meal is perfect for any occasion and can be customized easily with different ingredients based on personal preferences. Enjoy this delightful recipe as a quick weeknight dinner or impress your guests at gatherings!
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta
Loaded Herb Grilled Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that features tender grilled chicken combined with al dente pasta and a rich, creamy herb sauce. This vibrant recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, bringing an explosion of flavors and colors to your table. With fresh herbs, juicy chicken, and a touch of lemon, each bite is a celebration of taste and satisfaction.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon (2 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil; cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter; sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice; simmer until thickened.
- Slice the grilled chicken and combine it with the cooked pasta in the skillet; toss with sauce and herbs. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish by mixing in Parmesan cheese and serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For variations, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu or add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of olive oil.
