The Ultimate Guide to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
To prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, gather these essential ingredients:
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts cubed or sliced
- 12 oz pasta e.g., fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
- Spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Set aside to rest, then slice or dice.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and reserve a cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Adjust the consistency with pasta water if needed.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked pasta in the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Add the chicken slices and mix well.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes.