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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Creamy, cheesy, ready in 30 minutes.
Lady Maria

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

This creamy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy meal that's ready in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rotini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

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

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 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook chicken until cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
  8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta; al dente is best. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. For a thinner sauce, add more pasta water. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water. Add vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for extra nutrients.