Description
This Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta is packed with juicy pan-seared chicken, buttery garlic, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal made in just 30 minutes, perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (optional, to thin the sauce if needed)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) reserved pasta water (only if needed for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken slices with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C). Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add chicken broth or reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan.
- Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve warm with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Tip: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.