Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Cooking has always been a cherished part of my life, serving not only as a way to nourish but also as a creative outlet. I still vividly recall the first time I prepared creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta for my family. It was an ordinary Wednesday evening, yet as the rich aroma of garlic mingled with the savory scent of Parmesan wafted through our kitchen, it transformed what could have been just another weeknight dinner into something truly special. My family gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up with anticipation, and in that moment, I knew I had stumbled upon a new tradition. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that brings everyone together, creating cherished memories that linger long after the last bite.

Discover the magic of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta, a comforting dish that transforms any weeknight dinner into a memorable feast. This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce enriched with garlic and Parmesan. It's not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate that brings family and friends together. Ideal for busy evenings or special occasions, this dish promises to satisfy everyone at your table. Dive in and start creating delicious memories!

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

8 oz (225g) fettuccine or pasta of choice

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 cup spinach leaves (optional)

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Prepare the Chicken:

- While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Make the Sauce:

- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).

- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water progressively until you reach your desired consistency.

Combine Everything:

- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until well-coated. If using spinach, stir it in at this point until wilted. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta.

Garnish and Serve:

- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for a delightful creamy experience!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4