Description
Indulge in this incredibly flavorful and comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 pound pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
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4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
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1/2 cup reserved pasta water
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
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While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium.
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Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
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Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss gently to combine.
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Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
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Variations:
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Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
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Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different protein option.
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For a richer sauce, add 1/4 cup of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
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Preparation Tips:
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Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
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Do not overcook the chicken, as it will become dry.
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Salt the pasta water generously for best flavor in the pasta.
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Add the pasta water gradually to the sauce to achieve the desired consistency.
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Serving Tips:
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Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Garnish with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.
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Allergies and Intolerances:
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This recipe contains dairy. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and parmesan with a dairy-free alternative to make it dairy-free.
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This recipe contains gluten. Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
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Taste Adjustments:
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Add more or less garlic, depending on your preference.
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Adjust the amount of parmesan cheese to suit your liking.
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Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat, or omit if you do not like spicy food.
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Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for brightness.
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If you have a garlic press, press the garlic to get the most flavor.
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Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.
- Prep Time: PT15M
- Cook Time: PT20M
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 40 grams
- Saturated Fat: 25 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Italian Pasta, Pasta Recipe, Chicken Dinner, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal, Quick Recipe, Garlic Recipe, Parmesan Recipe, Comfort Food, Chicken Recipes.