Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring juicy golden chicken and a velvety Parmesan garlic sauce. It’s a satisfying dinner that feels luxurious yet is easy enough for a weeknight.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more to garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Slice thick chicken breasts in half horizontally. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub evenly over the chicken.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side. Add butter and garlic in the last minute. Baste and set aside to rest.
  3. Boil Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 1 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
  5. Combine Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
  6. Slice Chicken: Cut rested chicken into strips. Serve over the pasta or mix it in.
  7. Garnish: Top with extra Parmesan and parsley. Serve immediately.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes