Creamy Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Pasta Delight

A Luxurious and Comforting Pasta Dish

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Pasta Delight is the perfect blend of rich flavors, indulgent textures, and satisfying ingredients. This dish features tender, juicy chicken coated in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family meal or impressing guests, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy – The combination of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce.
• Easy to prepare – With simple steps, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Restaurant-quality taste – Enjoy an elegant pasta dish without leaving your home.
• Versatile – Customize with your favorite pasta, protein, or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Season the sliced chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
• Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
• Add the drained pasta and mix well to ensure the sauce evenly coats the noodles. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
• Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.

Variations

• Protein swaps – Try shrimp, salmon, or even grilled tofu instead of chicken.
• Pasta choices – Use penne, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you love.
• Veggie additions – Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Lighter version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmering the sauce longer or adding a bit more Parmesan will help thicken it. You can also mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Whole milk or half-and-half is a better substitute than skim milk.

What’s the best way to season the chicken?

A simple mix of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning works well, but you can add paprika or garlic powder for extra depth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

What’s the best Parmesan cheese to use?

Freshly grated Parmesan from a block melts best and provides the richest flavor. Avoid pre-shredded varieties, which may contain anti-caking agents.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic enhances the depth of flavor.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat when adding Parmesan and avoid boiling the sauce after adding dairy.

What side dishes go well with this pasta?

A crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just cook according to package directions and adjust the sauce if necessary.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Pasta Delight is a comforting, restaurant-worthy dish that’s easy to make at home. With its rich, garlicky sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal is sure to impress. Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner any night of the week!

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