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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a quick, comforting dinner featuring juicy chicken, a silky garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s easy to customize and guaranteed to be a family favorite for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts (about 16 oz), boneless and skinless
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (any long pasta; gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water)
  • 4–5 large garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup fresh baby spinach (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water (2 teaspoons salt) to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
  4. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (do not brown).
  5. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water. Add nutmeg if using, and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet with any juices. Add drained pasta and gently toss until coated in sauce. Stir in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using, until wilted.
  7. Let pasta simmer for 1-2 minutes so flavors meld and sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and fresh garlic. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Rotisserie chicken can be substituted for a quicker meal. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color. Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, garlic Parmesan pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, Italian pasta, chicken recipes, cozy dinner, family favorite, quick pasta

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta-recipe-for-the-best-cozy-dinners/