– 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta:
1. Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti, and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
4. Create Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
These straightforward steps guide you through making this easy yet delicious pasta dish, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.