Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe: Delicious Meal

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Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Nothing beats a comforting bowl of creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta.

This dish is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions.

With a velvety sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese, this pasta will quickly become a household favorite.

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning the sauce)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (to coat the pasta)

For Garnishing:

  • Freshly chopped parsley
  • Additional grated parmesan cheese
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season them on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water, then add the pasta.
  3. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  4. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
  5. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
  4. Add the grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
  6. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
  2. Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated.
  3. Add the sliced chicken back into the skillet, mixing it with the pasta and sauce.
  4. Let everything heat through for about 2 minutes, ensuring all flavors blend together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese over the top.
  2. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat (optional).
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, parmesan cheese, and quality heavy cream will enhance the flavor of your sauce.
  • Cook Chicken Properly: Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce while maintaining its creamy consistency.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  • Experiment with Pasta: While fettuccine is a classic choice, penne, spaghetti, or linguine work just as well.

Variations and Additions

  • Add Vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions to the sauce.
  • Make It Spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a twist on the classic recipe.
  • Make It Healthier: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or try a lightened-up version with Greek yogurt.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
  • Freezing: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken garlic parmesan pasta is a simple yet indulgent dish that is sure to become a staple in your home.

If you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality pasta dish right at home!

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