Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish made with garlic, cream, and parmesan that brings families together.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta You can swap this with your preferred pasta shape, such as penne or linguine.
- 1 lb chicken breast Boneless and skinless is best. For a lighter option, use turkey or even chickpeas.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh minced garlic elevates the taste, but jarred can work in a pinch.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a healthier twist, replace it with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated Freshly grated cheese yields the best flavor; however, pre-grated will suffice in a hurry.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin olive oil will add a robust flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Don't forget to taste as you go!
- to taste chopped parsley for garnish This adds a fresh pop of color, but you could also use basil or thyme.
Instructions
Cooking
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, allowing it to bubble gently. Stir in the grated parmesan, mixing until combined and the cheese has melted into a luscious sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Mix to coat the pasta, adding some reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky consistency.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy your warm, creamy delight!
Notes
This dish holds up beautifully as leftovers. Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its silky smooth texture.