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Creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is pictured, showcasing a delectable and dreamy dish perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Lady Maria

Dreamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a symphony of creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors that's both quick enough for a weeknight and impressive enough for company. It features tender chicken, your favorite pasta, and a decadent Parmesan sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 pound pasta fettuccine or penne recommended
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish optional
  • Water for boiling pasta

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • knife
  • Cutting board
  • tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add the red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the cheese is melted and smooth.
  5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, continue cooking it for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. To add vegetables, consider broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if needed.