Description
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breast (or Thighs): Lean protein that cooks quickly; thighs give extra juiciness.
- Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well—use whole wheat or gluten-free if needed.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds bold flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for a smooth, creamy sauce. Can sub with Pecorino Romano.
- Heavy Cream: Creates that rich, silky texture. Half-and-half works for a lighter option.
- Butter: For richness and depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Enhances flavor; can substitute with vegetable broth.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes for spice.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley for garnish adds color and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large chicken breasts (sliced thin or cubed)
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt (to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil/butter over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown (6–8 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted into a creamy sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- 🥦 Veggie Boost: Stir in broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- 🧀 Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or cream cheese for added richness.
- 🥗 Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap with Greek yogurt.
- 🐟 Protein Swap: Try shrimp, salmon, or even tofu instead of chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta – Always cook al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Not using freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- High heat on cream – Can cause the sauce to break or curdle. Keep it gentle.
- Skipping pasta water – It helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Overcooking chicken – Leads to dry, tough bites.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Fresh green salad with Italian dressing
- Roasted vegetables
- A crisp white wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (¼ recipe)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg