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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich and comforting dish combining tender seared chicken, a velvety garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Quick and easy to prepare, this family-friendly recipe uses simple pantry staples to deliver a luscious, savory meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet, let rest briefly, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water to adjust sauce if needed.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: Add cooked pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce. If sauce is too thick, loosen with reserved pasta water to desired consistency.
  5. Finish and Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for color and brightness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Use fresh minced garlic for the best sauce flavor.
  • Warm your cream to a gentle simmer before adding Parmesan to prevent curdling.
  • Reserve pasta water to help adjust the sauce’s creaminess and consistency.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese yourself for optimal melting and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food, Chicken Pasta, Easy Dinner, Family Meal