Description
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. Featuring tender chicken, a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, and your choice of pasta, it’s a weeknight favorite that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini recommended)
- Optional: 1 cup spinach or mushrooms
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Add cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in spinach or mushrooms if using, and cook until tender.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Italian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 28g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 180mg