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Garlicky Saucy Pasta That Brings Everyone to the Table


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Craving a rich and satisfying dinner that comes together quickly? This Garlicky Saucy Pasta with Chicken is everything you want in an easy dinner recipe. Tender, pan-seared chicken cutlets rest atop a bed of spaghetti smothered in creamy, garlic-infused sauce with juicy tomatoes and fresh herbs. It’s a one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you’re simply out of food ideas but still want something indulgent. This is your go-to when you need quick dinner ideas, creamy pasta cravings, or a reliable yet impressive comfort food recipe.


Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon olive oil

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

1 tablespoon butter

6 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 cup chicken broth

3/4 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 medium tomato, diced

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

4. In the same pan, reduce heat. Add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

5. Add chicken broth, scraping pan bits. Let simmer for 2 minutes. Pour in cream and stir to thicken for 3–4 minutes.

6. Stir in Parmesan until melted, then add diced tomato. Simmer 2–3 minutes.

7. Toss in cooked pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

8. Slice cooked chicken and place over pasta. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.

Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful.

A splash of lemon juice added before serving brings out the garlic beautifully.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing + Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 510mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: easy dinner, garlicky pasta, creamy chicken pasta, comfort food, weeknight pasta