Description
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with your choice of pasta and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (any variety, such as fettuccine or penne)
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside while preparing the sauce and chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken pieces are cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to combine with the chicken and garlic. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth, creamy, and well incorporated.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss everything together carefully to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use any type of pasta you prefer such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor and melting quality.
- This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
