Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped optional
- Additional grated Parmesan optional
- A pinch of red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely and thicken the sauce.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in small amounts of reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Layer the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley, additional Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Customize your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 450kcal
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