Description

This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, rich garlic-infused cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a hint of herbs, this easy weeknight meal is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Pasta and Sauce:

12 oz rotini pasta (or preferred pasta)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)

For Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine.
Incorporate Cheese and Seasonings: Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Variations: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut milk, and use dairy-free Parmesan.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Category: Main Course, Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian, American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 620 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 110mg

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