Description
A luscious and comforting creamy chicken garlic Parmesan pasta made with tender chicken breast pieces simmered in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This easy stovetop recipe combines savory flavors and creamy textures for a satisfying dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Herbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Pantry Items
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut 1 pound of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and lightly golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken onto a plate and set aside to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add liquids for sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring well to combine with the garlic.
- Simmer sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and develop flavor.
- Melt cheese into sauce: Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking, stirring often until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season sauce: Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using; mix thoroughly to combine.
- Cook pasta: Meanwhile, cook 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain pasta: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Add chicken back in: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and stir everything together to incorporate the protein with the pasta and sauce.
- Adjust consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.
- Final seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta and chicken to add freshness and color.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken garlic Parmesan pasta immediately while hot for the best experience.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add crushed chili for more heat.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smoother melting.
- If the sauce thickens too much after resting, thin it with a splash of additional chicken broth or cream before reheating.
- Chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breast for a juicier texture.
- Adding steamed or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
