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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Caroline

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

A rich and comforting pasta dish with tender chicken, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 lb pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • wooden spoon or spatula
  • Tongs (for tossing pasta)
  • knife & cutting board
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 30–60 seconds.
  4. Deglaze with chicken broth, scraping up brown bits. Stir in heavy cream and remaining Italian seasoning; simmer 2–3 minutes. Lower heat and whisk in Parmesan until smooth.
  5. Return chicken and juices to the skillet. Add pasta, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For deeper flavor, substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
  • Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
  • If reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
  • Serve with garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.