Indulge in a culinary symphony of flavors with our creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe. This savory dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce to create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this irresistible masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken slices to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the broth to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and broth mixture. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them back to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Toss gently to combine. Serve the creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- To add extra richness, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, although the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
- Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed for a cozy weeknight dinner or served as the star of your next dinner party, this dish promises to impress with its delicious flavors and comforting appeal. So, gather your ingredients, follow our simple steps, and treat yourself to a homemade meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Buon appetito!
