Description

The Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy and comforting flavors, ideal for a special dinner or a practical weeknight meal. This recipe combines juicy, seasoned chicken pieces with al dente pasta, all enveloped in an irresistibly creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce. Simple to prepare, it’s the perfect choice to impress guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy dish at home.

Ingredients

• Pasta:
• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or spaghetti
• Water and salt for cooking the pasta
• Chicken:
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Method

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining and keeping the pasta warm.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken in the skillet until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, being careful not to over-brown it. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper to taste. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat in the creamy sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the pasta and sauce.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. This dish is best enjoyed hot, allowing the flavors to shine and the sauce to maintain its creamy texture.

Tips and Conclusion

To add variety to the recipe, incorporate vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms into the sauce. For an extra layer of flavor, substitute the chicken broth with dry white wine. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
Preparing Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delicious and rewarding experience. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich and comforting flavor makes this dish a guaranteed success for any occasion. Explore other recipes on our site to discover new pasta and sauce combinations, and turn your meals into unforgettable moments!