Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate cozy dinner, this Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce is about to become your new go-to comfort meal. It’s a luscious blend of juicy marinated chicken, twirly pasta, and a silky parmesan cream sauce so rich and flavorful, you’ll want to lick the plate. The best part? You can have all this restaurant-worthy goodness on your table in just over half an hour!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce is that it comes together with fresh, simple ingredients that each shine in their own way. Every component is here for a reason—from the aromatic garlic to that super creamy parmesan sauce, each layer builds maximum flavor and texture.

• Chicken Breast: Butterflied to cook evenly and marinated for extra flavor and juiciness.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds warmth, color, and a subtle smoky note to both chicken and sauce.
• Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic: Double the garlic amps up the savory goodness throughout.
• Dried and Fresh Parsley: Dried for the marinade, fresh for the sauce and finishing, giving vibrant color and herby brightness.
• Chili Flakes: Just a pinch brings gentle heat without overpowering.
• Olive Oil & Butter: Olive oil infuses the chicken as it marinates, while butter adds lushness to both chicken sear and sauce.
• Onion: Diced and sautéed for mellow, sweet flavor in the base of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: The secret to that signature velvety finish for the parmesan cream sauce.
• Flour Slurry: For perfectly thickened, clingy sauce that coats every bite (just mix flour with water first—no lumps!).
• Fusilli Pasta: Spirals are perfect for trapping sauce, but any pasta shape you love will work.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce for nutty, salty richness. Pre-grated just doesn’t compare!

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce? It’s a perfect canvas for your own twists! Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients for favorites you have on hand or adjust to fit your dietary needs—this recipe loves a little creativity.

• Make it Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or a sliced fresh chili for even more heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted veggies.
• Try a Different Cheese: Swap some of the parmesan for Romano, gruyère, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Use Your Favorite Pasta: Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free shapes work beautifully—just cook to al dente.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by butterflying your chicken breast and placing it on a plate or in a small bowl. Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and chili flakes. Drizzle over the olive oil and gently rub everything in. This quick 10-minute marinade gives the chicken deep, smoky flavor and keeps it tender.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of butter. When the butter just starts to foam, add your marinated chicken. Cook it undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring a beautiful golden crust and juicy center. Transfer to a plate, and let it rest before slicing—resting keeps all those flavorful juices locked in!

Step 3: Build the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same pan (and all those tasty chicken bits), melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add diced onion and eight cloves of minced garlic—yes, eight! Sauté until the onion is soft and everything smells like heaven, about 3-4 minutes. Browning the butter just a touch first adds even more flavor!

Step 4: Make It Silky

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Whisk in your flour-water slurry for thickness, then let the sauce bubble gently for 2-3 minutes. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili flakes, and a handful of chopped parsley—it’s like a flavor bomb went off in your pan!

Step 5: Boil and Combine the Pasta

As your sauce simmers to perfection, cook your fusilli (or favorite pasta) in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain well and add the hot pasta straight into the sauce, tossing to coat each spiral with luscious parmesan cream.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat, then stir in your freshly grated parmesan. Let the cheese melt and blend into the sauce for that signature creamy consistency. Top with thick slices of your golden chicken, sprinkle on extra parsley and parmesan if you’re feeling fancy, and serve up the most delicious Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce you’ve ever tasted.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Brighten the creamy finish with a generous shower of more freshly grated parmesan, extra chopped parsley, and—if you want a touch of heat—a light scattering of chili flakes. A drizzle of good olive oil or even freshly cracked black pepper can make your Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce look and taste straight out of an Italian trattoria.

Side Dishes

This decadent dish pairs beautifully with something crisp and light—think a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing or perfectly roasted green beans. For magic on the plate, don’t forget garlic bread or warm focaccia to mop up the extra parmesan cream sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it dinner party-worthy by twirling the pasta into nests and topping each with sliced chicken for a stunning plated effect. Or, try serving family-style in a big dish with chicken fanned on top and a sprinkle of colorful microgreens—everyone digs in, and everyone’s happy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers of your Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but it stays creamy and delicious with a quick reheat.

Freezing

While creamy sauces can sometimes separate when frozen, you can freeze portions if needed. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk gently when reheating to help bring the sauce back together.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the smoothness of the sauce. Microwave works, too—just stir every 30 seconds. Add a sprinkle of fresh parmesan at the end for even more creaminess and flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dinner guaranteed to bring comfort and smiles to your table, it’s Creamy Chicken and Pasta with Parmesan Cream Sauce. The harmony of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and pasta spirals is pure magic—so go ahead, whip up a batch and treat yourself (and everyone you love) to a truly memorable, restaurant-style meal right at home!

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