Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• Salt for the pasta water

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

1. Melt Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Cook Garlic and Bell Pepper: Add the minced garlic and red bell pepper slices. Cook until the garlic is fragrant and the bell peppers are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

1. Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped parsley or chives over the top.

Serve:

1. Plate and Enjoy: Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta immediately, with extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Tips for the Best Pasta:

• Season Well: Be sure to season each component of the dish well to enhance the overall flavor.
• Pasta Water: Using reserved pasta water helps to thin out the sauce and adds extra flavor and starch to the dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant peppers makes this dish both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this delicious pasta for a special dinner or a comforting meal any night of the week!