This creamy chicken and parmesan pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its rich, cheesy sauce clings beautifully to perfectly cooked pasta, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe goes beyond the basic creamy pasta, offering a depth of flavor and texture that elevates it from simple to spectacular.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken and Parmesan Pasta Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't your average creamy pasta. We've focused on building layers of flavor, starting with perfectly seasoned chicken breast, a creamy sauce made from scratch (no canned soups here!), and the perfect amount of parmesan cheese for that irresistible salty-sharp kick. We also incorporate fresh herbs and a touch of lemon juice for brightness, preventing the dish from becoming too heavy.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but adds a lovely sharpness)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 lb pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses (if using) until melted and smooth. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to coat. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with many pasta shapes, including fettuccine, penne, rigatoni, or even shells. Choose your favorite!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the pasta is best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving with freshly cooked pasta.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. You could also try using a plant-based cream alternative, but be aware that the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. You can also whisk in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce along with the chicken.
Tips for the Perfect Dish:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to preventing a mushy dish.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant flavor that elevates the dish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is crucial, so taste the sauce and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference.
This creamy chicken and parmesan pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for any occasion. Enjoy!
