Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
A heartwarming dish featuring twirling strands of pasta enveloped in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice: fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced (or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Grate fresh for best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once bubbling, add a generous pinch of salt and your pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine it with the chicken and garlic. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and the sauce achieves a creamy consistency.
- Add your cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing until it’s generously coated in that luscious sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve.
Notes
This recipe can be customized with veggies or spices. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently. For a make-ahead option, prepare the sauce and pasta a day in advance.