Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Here’s a simple and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. It’s loaded with juicy chicken, a flavorful garlic Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1½ cups (150 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)

Garnish:

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Season the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Sear the chicken pieces in the skillet until golden and fully cooked (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
    • Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing it to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
    • Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
    • Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until well coated.
    • If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  5. Add the Chicken:
    • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to combine. Heat for 1-2 minutes until everything is warm.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
    • Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
  • Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Enjoy this rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!

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