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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken is a rich, indulgent dish featuring tender, crispy chicken served on a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta. The garlicky Parmesan sauce is the perfect complement to the savory chicken, making this a comforting meal everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Pan-Seared Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
  • Salt, for the pasta water

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook the fettuccine (or your preferred pasta) according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
    • Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Cook the Chicken:
    • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
    • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
    • Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
    • Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
    • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
    • Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
  5. Assemble the Dish:
    • Divide the creamy pasta onto plates.
    • Top with the sliced pan-seared chicken.
    • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan, if desired.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve immediately and enjoy your indulgent, creamy pasta with pan-seared chicken!

Notes

  • For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
  • You can also add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (with chicken and pasta)
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 880
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 17
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg