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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

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A creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, garlic Parmesan sauce, and al dente penne pasta, perfect for quick and satisfying weeknight meals.

Ingredients

1 stick butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1–3 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

2 tbsp minced parsley

1 lb penne pasta

1.5 lbs chicken breast or tenders

2 tbsp poultry or all-purpose seasoning

8 oz cream cheese, cubed

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup reserved pasta water

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for finishing)

Olive oil, as needed

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Garlic bread or breadsticks for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In a medium bowl, melt the butter until softened. Add minced garlic, grated Parmesan, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced parsley. Stir until well combined and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken with olive oil and poultry seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the pasta. Add the prepared garlic Parmesan sauce, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  5. Finish the Dish: Stir in the finishing Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, optionally with garlic bread or breadsticks.

Notes

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
  • Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing hot sauce and red pepper flakes.
  • Use different pasta shapes such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
  • Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months, reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and melting quality.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/garlic-parmesan-chicken-pasta/