Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Preparation Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them with the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden on the outside and fully cooked in the center. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Final Thoughts
This creamy garlic chicken pasta comes together in about 30 minutes and combines tender chicken, a rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in one satisfying meal. It works especially well for a weeknight dinner when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.