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parmesan garlic chicken pasta

Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy, restaurant-quality pasta with tender chicken, rich garlic sauce, and plenty of parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine American, Italian
Calories 485 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces pasta
  • 1 tablespoon salt

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Extra parmesan for garnish
  • Salt to taste you might not need extra

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Season and cook: Heat olive oil in skillet, season chicken with salt and pepper, cook 6-7 minutes per side until golden.
  • Rest and slice: Remove chicken, let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips and set aside.

Cook the Pasta

  • Boil pasta: Bring salted water to boil, add pasta, cook until al dente per package directions.
  • Reserve water: Save pasta cooking water before draining pasta.

Make the Sauce

  • Garlic base: In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add liquids: Pour wine, simmer 2 minutes, add broth and cream, simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Finish sauce: Remove from heat, stir in parmesan until melted and smooth throughout.
  • Combine all: Add pasta and chicken to skillet, toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
  • Final touch: Season with salt, pepper, and parsley, serve with extra parmesan.

Notes

  • Fresh parmesan melts better: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, so grate your own for best results.
  • Don't skip the pasta water: The starchy cooking liquid helps bind the sauce and creates the perfect creamy consistency throughout.
  • Wine alternatives work fine: If you don't drink wine, substitute with extra broth or add lemon juice for acidity.
  • Chicken temperature matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for food safety and optimal texture.
  • Serve immediately for best texture: This pasta is at its creamiest when served hot - leftovers reheat well with extra liquid.