Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy 30-minute dinner that's perfect for a weeknight. It features tender chicken and pasta tossed in a rich, cheesy garlic parmesan sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb pasta penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape
- 8 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it's cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set the chicken aside.
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Don't overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.