Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1.1 lbs (500 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream)
  • 1/2 cup (100 ml) chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
  • 1 cup (80 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz (250 g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, spaghettoni, or rotini)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente.
    • Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
  2. Sear the Chicken:
    • Season the chicken cubes with garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet over low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add the minced garlic. Saute for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
    • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly reduced.
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  4. Combine:
    • Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
    • Nestled the golden chicken pieces back on top of the creamy pasta.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

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