Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavor-packed meal perfect for satisfying cravings. Tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta are tossed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that's quick and easy to make. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a truly irresistible dish.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lb pasta fettuccine, spaghetti, or your favorite shape
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
- Optional: vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes
- Optional: fresh basil or oregano
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is nicely coated.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- While the chicken is cooking, cook the pasta 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, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. 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 until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sauté vegetables like spinach or broccoli before adding the garlic. Fresh herbs such as basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.