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Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta

Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Comfort Food in 30 Minutes

Quick and decadent, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta combines Southern and Italian flavors for a delightful meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian, Southern
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra moisture.
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika Smoked preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Fettuccine or penne; gluten-free options if desired.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For the roux base.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for lighter versions.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Avoid pre-grated for optimal melting.
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Softened.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Optional for less tangy taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
Optional Additions
  • 4 ounces Bacon For added flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions For garnish.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley For garnish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for extra heat.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Meat Mallet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to a uniform ¾-inch thickness for even cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create a spice blend. Rub this mixture over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the seasoned chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  5. In the same skillet, reduce heat, add butter and minced garlic, sauté for 1 minute, then whisk in flour to form a roux.
  6. Gradually pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and simmer to thicken for 3–4 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in softened cream cheese until melted, followed by Parmesan cheese until smooth. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water.
  8. Add drained pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat. Serve with sliced chicken on top or mixed through.
  9. Garnish with optional bacon, green onions, parsley, and red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal results, use freshly grated Parmesan and reserve pasta water for sauce tweaking.

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