Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Chicken
01 -
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into juicy bite-sized pieces
02 -
3 tablespoons butter, divided, for that perfect golden sear
03 -
3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
04 -
1 teaspoon paprika, adding beautiful color and flavor
05 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
06 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 -
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, for a gentle kick (optional)
08 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a pop of color
→ For the Creamy Pasta
09 -
8 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne work beautifully)
10 -
1 tablespoon olive oil, for silky smooth sauce
11 -
2 cups heavy cream
12 -
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
13 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
14 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
15 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
16 -
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, for that secret touch of warmth (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Begin by cooking your pasta in well-salted water until it reaches that ideal al dente texture. Before draining, remember to save 1/2 cup of that precious pasta water - it's the secret to silky smooth sauce!
02 -
Season your chicken pieces with a flavorful blend of paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you're feeling spicy. Heat butter in a large skillet until it's sizzling, then add the chicken and cook until it's beautifully golden brown on all sides.
03 -
Add another pat of butter and fresh garlic to your chicken, letting it become fragrant and coat each piece in garlicky goodness. Set this aromatic mixture aside while we craft the sauce.
04 -
In the same pan, capturing all those wonderful chicken flavors, combine olive oil and butter. Pour in the heavy cream, seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg if you're feeling fancy. Let it simmer gently until it starts to thicken.
05 -
Gradually stir in your freshly grated Parmesan, watching it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Use that reserved pasta water to achieve your ideal consistency - think silky and luxurious!
06 -
Toss your cooked pasta through this heavenly sauce, ensuring every strand is perfectly coated. Top with your garlic butter chicken pieces and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that restaurant-worthy presentation.
# Notes:
01 -
This restaurant-style dish combines the comfort of creamy pasta with perfectly seasoned chicken
02 -
The reserved pasta water is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency - don't skip this step!