Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta – You can use any type of pasta, but fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti works well to hold the creamy sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts, diced – Chicken provides a hearty protein, and dicing it ensures quick cooking.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic is key to adding a bold, savory flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The cream forms the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth to the sauce and prevents it from being too heavy.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan gives the sauce its cheesy, salty finish.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to the finished dish.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce. - Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken is evenly browned to develop a nice flavor. - Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. - Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring the mixture to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat. Allow the sauce to cook and thicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help concentrate the flavors and create a creamy texture. - Add the Parmesan Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. - Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the sauce until the pasta is fully coated. Make sure the pasta absorbs the sauce evenly for the best taste and texture. - Serve and Garnish
Transfer the creamy garlic chicken pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley. This not only adds a burst of freshness but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Notes
Serving and Presentation Tips
To make your Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta visually appealing, plate it in shallow bowls or plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green. You can also serve the dish with a side of crusty garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra cheesy finish, grate some Parmesan over the top just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner