Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta, a dish that combines tender chicken, a rich and creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting, restaurant-quality meal is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight while also being impressive enough to serve at a dinner gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy: The sauce is velvety and infused with garlic and Parmesan for a deeply satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta shape, add veggies, or switch up the protein.
• Quick and simple: With a prep and cook time under an hour, this recipe is a great go-to for busy evenings.
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and cream is always a hit with kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (e.g., fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional, for adjusting sauce consistency)

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra grated Parmesan

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken cutlets with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Everything

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
2. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
3. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

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Possible Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
• Protein Swaps: Use shrimp, turkey, or even crispy tofu instead of chicken.
• Add Veggies: Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus make excellent additions to the dish.
• Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.

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FAQs

1. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

2. What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work beautifully, but any pasta shape can be used.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components (chicken, sauce, and pasta) separately and combine them when ready to serve.

4. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing cream-based sauces can alter their texture. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. To compensate, use whole milk and add 1 tablespoon of flour to help thicken it.

7. What’s a good side dish for this meal?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this pasta dish.

8. How do I keep the chicken moist?

Don’t overcook the chicken; cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients (like Parmesan) are gluten-free.

10. What can I use instead of butter?

Olive oil is a good substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

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Conclusion

Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat. With its luscious sauce, tender chicken, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Give it a try and let its rich flavors transform your mealtime!

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