Parmesan Chicken Creamy Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken Prep
01 -
1 lb. chicken (breasts or thighs), trimmed and diced into tender pieces
02 -
3 tbsp butter (split for cooking and browning)
03 -
3 chopped garlic cloves
04 -
1 tsp smoked paprika for flavor and color
05 -
1/2 tsp sea salt
06 -
1/4 tsp crushed black pepper
07 -
1/4 tsp red chili flakes for mild heat (optional)
08 -
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for brightness
→ Creamy Pasta Base
09 -
8 oz any pasta you like (penne or fettuccine suggested)
10 -
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for smooth blending
11 -
2 cups rich heavy cream
12 -
1 cup Parmesan, shredded fresh
13 -
1 tsp powdered garlic
14 -
1/4 tsp nutmeg for warmth (optional)
15 -
1/2 tsp salt to taste
16 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil pasta in heavily salted water until just firm to the bite. Before draining, save half a cup of that pasta water—it transforms the sauce into creamy perfection.
02 -
Toss the chicken in a mix of paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if desired). Melt butter in a big pan, then cook the chicken until golden and fragrant.
03 -
Stir in a fresh dab of butter and minced garlic with the chicken, letting it coat all the pieces. Set the chicken aside so you can make the sauce.
04 -
In that same pan (where all the good chicken bits left flavor), combine butter and olive oil. Pour in the cream, then season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook gently until it thickens slightly.
05 -
Slowly add Parmesan, stirring while it melts into a creamy mixture. If it needs adjusting, pour in reserved pasta water until it’s silky smooth.
06 -
Coat your pasta completely in that dreamlike sauce, then top it with those flavorful chicken bites. Sprinkle parsley on top for an extra touch.
# Notes:
01 -
This dish is a perfect balance of flavorful chicken and rich pasta with sauce.
02 -
Adding some pasta water to the sauce makes it creamy and smooth, so don’t forget this trick.