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Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

A creamy and comforting pasta dinner made with juicy chicken, fresh garlic, Parmesan cheese, and tender penne pasta. Ready in about 35 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 610
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For Chicken
  • 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken with the spices.
  3. Heat olive oil and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet.
  4. Melt butter and sauté the garlic.
  5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
  6. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
  7. Add the seasonings and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
  8. Return the chicken to the skillet.
  9. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
  10. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
  11. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Fresh Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Reserve pasta water for a silky sauce.
  • Fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
  • Add spinach or broccoli for extra vegetables.
  • Best served immediately.