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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe

You know those days when you just want something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor? Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hits the spot every single time. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy solo night, this dish delivers comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced (or more if you’re feeling bold—no judgment here!)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

and For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz of your favorite pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine works great!)
  • 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
  • Cracked black pepper
  •  

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

I usually boil my pasta in water with salt in a large cooking pot. I refer to the package instructions; but here is my personal tip: al dente! (Because mushy pasta is nothing anyone likes.) Before draining the pasta, I still remember to save around 2 tablespoons of pasta water-you will thank me for it later.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken

Dab chicken with some paper towel till it becomes dry. (This indeed helps in obtaining that much desired golden brown sear). Toss the chicken pieces in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through-about 6-7 minutes. Set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic, cooking it until fragrant-about 1 minute. Stir in some heavy cream, and let simmer for 3-4 minutes. Gradually pour in the Parmesan cheese until it melts. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine Everything

Toss in the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet and gently toss everything with that delectable sauce. Should the sauce become thick, pour in a skosh of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Garnish and Serve

Plate your pasta, sprinkle on some fresh parsley, and add extra Parmesan (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese). Serve it up warm and watch the magic happen!

Notes

  • Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly, so grab a block and a grater.
  • Go garlic crazy: Love garlic? Double it! This dish is forgiving, and garlic is the star.
  • Try different pasta shapes: Don’t limit yourself—rigatoni or bow ties work just as well.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta