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If you adore rich, comforting meals that feel like a warm hug, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken and luscious, garlicky, cheesy sauce that coats every strand of fettuccine like a dream. With just the right hint of seasoning and a touch of heat, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a truly satisfying dinner that feels both elegant and cozy. You’ll want this recipe in your regular rotation, guaranteed to impress family and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and all-stars in their own right, working together to build flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy sauce we all crave. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s the fresh garlic for a punch of aromatics or the Parmesan that lends its signature salty richness.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect protein to sear and serve atop pasta for a hearty dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps achieve that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs to brighten the dish.
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice: A pasta with plenty of surface to hold on to that luscious sauce.
- Salt, for the pasta water: The secret to flavoring your pasta from within.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and a silky sauce base.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic boosts flavor with aromatic sweetness and zest.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, indulgent sauce that makes this recipe irresistible.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty, and essential for that signature cheesy goodness.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Balances and enhances the sauce’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds warmth and a mild kick to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat goes a long way to elevate the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of well-salted water to a vigorous boil. This is your first key step to perfectly seasoned pasta from the inside out. Add the fettuccine or your favorite pasta and cook it until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the shape you choose. Drain carefully, but be sure to reserve about ½ cup of that starchy pasta water—it will help you loosen the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Pan-Seared the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). When the skillet is hot, place the chicken in and let it cook undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes on one side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Flip and cook the other side for the same amount of time until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the pan and let it rest a few minutes—resting is key to juicy chicken—then slice into tender strips.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter, allowing it to mingle with the chicken’s flavorful browned bits leftover in the pan. Add minced garlic and cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to burn it because you want only that gentle, savory aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a soft simmer, then stir in grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Keep stirring as the sauce thickens gracefully, about 3 to 4 minutes—the consistency should be silky and rich enough to cling to pasta strands.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the cooked fettuccine back into the skillet with the luscious sauce. Toss repeatedly to coat every ribbon of pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it just right. This is where that magic happens—watch your pasta enveloped in creamy, garlicky, cheesy perfection.
Step 5: Assemble Your Dish
Divide the creamy pasta generously onto four plates, then top with those beautifully pan-seared chicken strips. Finish with a sprinkling of fresh parsley and an optional extra dusting of Parmesan for an irresistible presentation and final pop of flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an absolute must—it adds a lively green contrast that brightens the rich cream sauce with freshness and color. Don’t hesitate to add more Parmesan cheese on top for that extra cheesy punch. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be sprinkled for guests who love a little zing in their dish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are the ultimate companions, perfect for mopping up every delicious bit of sauce left on your plate. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli make an earthy, textured addition to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta on warm plates to keep it cozy longer. For a fun twist, swirl the pasta into tight nests before adding the chicken on top, highlighting the creamy sauce underneath. Garnish creatively with whole Parmesan shards or edible flowers for an elegant touch if you’re entertaining. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can bring a lovely finishing nuance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist, store it separately if possible and combine when reheating.
Freezing
While the sauce tends to change texture after freezing, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the best flavors and consistency.
Reheating
Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate. Stir frequently to warm evenly and keep the chicken tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is ideal because it holds onto sauce beautifully, you can swap in penne, linguine, or even a short pasta like rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and using a vegan Parmesan substitute, you can still enjoy a creamy, flavorful pasta. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cutting into the thickest part and ensuring the juices run clear is a good homemade test.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce ahead of time and gently reheat it before tossing with pasta and chicken. Just be sure to stir well and add a splash of cream if it thickens too much after standing.
What if I want more garlic flavor?
Feel free to increase the minced garlic to suit your taste! Roasting the garlic beforehand is another way to add a mellow, sweet garlic depth. Just watch the garlic when cooking so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting and special about this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe that makes it a standout in any weeknight or weekend dinner lineup. It’s approachable, quick, and loaded with flavor that satisfies every craving for creamy, cheesy goodness balanced with tender, savory chicken. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this delightful dish your own—it’s sure to become a much-loved classic in your kitchen!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Pan-Seared Chicken is a rich and indulgent dish perfect for a comforting meal. Tender pan-seared chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked to perfection, then served atop fettuccine coated in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dinner that’s satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- Salt, for the pasta water
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving half a cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide the creamy pasta onto plates. Place the sliced pan-seared chicken on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this comforting pasta dish.
Notes
- You can substitute fettuccine with any pasta shape you prefer, such as linguine or penne.
- If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness in the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water is useful to adjust consistency of the sauce without diluting the flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream sauce.
