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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

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This Ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich and comforting dish blending tender chicken, al dente twisted pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of savory flavors enhanced with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing chicken)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Pasta

  • 1 lb twisted pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
  • 1-2 cups reserved pasta water
  • Salt (for pasta water)

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry and season them with 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, keeping the skillet with the browned bits.
  2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 to 2 cups of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Return the skillet with the chicken fond to medium heat. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen browned bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  4. Create Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference or omit for a milder dish.
  • Reserve pasta water carefully; the starch helps to loosen and thicken the sauce without watering it down.
  • To ensure chicken cooks evenly, cut into uniform 1-inch cubes and avoid overcrowding the pan when searing.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but the sauce will be less rich.

Find it online: https://mealoria.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-recipe/