Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety Parmesan garlic sauce. Perfect for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or choice)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Combine Everything:
- Slice chicken and return to skillet.
- Add drained pasta and toss, using reserved pasta water for a silkier texture if needed.
- Adjust seasoning as desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Swaps: Use shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy pasta recipe, Parmesan sauce, weeknight dinner