Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce make this dish a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to combine, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Add vegetables like broccoli florets or spinach for added nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 45g
