This is the third time we’re having this dish this week. It’s ridiculously tasty!

 

🍽️ Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

“This is the third time we’re having this dish this week. It’s ridiculously tasty!”

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Introduction: Why This Dish?

If you find yourself craving the same dish repeatedly, it usually means it’s a winner. This creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is exactly that: rich, flavorful, simple, and flexible enough to adapt. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it hits the spot every time.

It’s loaded with tender chicken breast, silky garlic cream sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and just the right amount of parmesan cheese for depth. Bonus: It’s one-pot friendly and quick to make!

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Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Protein & Pasta:

• 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well)

Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option)

• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Herbs:

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach (optional but recommended)

• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional for a flavor boost)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

Optional Extras:

• Red pepper flakes (for heat)

• Mushrooms (sautéed)

• Lemon zest (for brightness)

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Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid

• Pot for boiling pasta

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Cheese grater

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

• Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.

• Slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces for faster cooking and easy eating.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.

• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

• Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute) but not browned.

• Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.

• Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 3–4 minutes.

• Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.

• Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.

• Toss in the cooked pasta and spinach (if using).

• Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.

• Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and everything is coated in creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil and optional red pepper flakes on top.

• Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

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Why It’s Ridiculously Tasty

• Garlic + Butter + Parmesan = magic. The base of this sauce is the holy trinity of comfort food flavors.

• Creamy, silky sauce clings to every piece of pasta and chicken.

• Bright pops of sun-dried tomato or fresh spinach cut through the richness.

• Customizable — add mushrooms, swap chicken for shrimp, or spice it up with chili flakes.

• Quick and easy enough to make multiple times a week without fatigue.

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Variations & Tips to Keep It Fresh

1. Swap the Protein

• Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.

• For vegetarian, omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

2. Try Different Pastas

• Rigatoni, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta varieties work wonderfully.

3. Make It Lighter

• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little flour for thickening.

• Use less butter or a butter substitute.

4. Add a Crunch Factor

• Toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts sprinkled on top before serving.

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Make-Ahead and Storage

Leftovers

• Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

• This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately.

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Nutritional Overview (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 600–700

• Protein: 40g

• Fat: 40g

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

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Final Thoughts: Why We Keep Coming Back for This Dish

It’s simple, it’s indulgent, and it feels like a treat without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting friends, it’s a recipe that works every time. That’s why it’s landed on your menu not once, not twice, but three times this week — because it’s ridiculously tasty and consistently satisfying.