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A steaming plate of creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta showcasing tender chicken pieces nestled among perfectly cooked pasta strands, generously coated in a rich, golden parmesan sauce with flecks of fresh herbs and garlic.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A delightful and creamy pasta dish that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that will make your taste buds dance. It's an easy weeknight dinner that promises to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 cup high-quality Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 6 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Meat thermometer
  • Grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  5. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook on low heat until fragrant.
  6. Cook pasta in a separate pot until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  7. Add heavy cream to the garlic butter mixture and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  9. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, using reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
  10. Slice the rested chicken and place on top of the pasta.
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
  12. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The recipe can be easily modified by adding spinach, swapping chicken for shrimp, or making it vegetarian with roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture.