Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
• 4 garlic (cloves, minced)
• 1.5 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 12 oz penne pasta (dry weight)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   Season the bite-sized chicken breast pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coating.

3. 3

   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer.

4. 4

   Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

5. 5

   Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter.

6. 6

   Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

7. 7

   Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

8. 8

   Whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

9. 9

   Add the cooked pasta and the cooked chicken back into the skillet.

10. 10

    Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

11. 11

    Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For a thinner sauce, reserve a splash of pasta water and add it during step 10. You can add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the sauce-making phase for extra flavor and nutrients.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• dinner
• pasta
• chicken
• creamy
• garlic
• parmesan
• one-pan