Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, and it never fails to impress. Picture this: tender chicken, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s just heavenly! I remember the first time I made this for a cozy dinner party with friends; the aroma of garlic and butter filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait to serve it. Trust me, when you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen. It’s quick to whip up and feels so indulgent, making it perfect for any night of the week or a special occasion. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken. Trust me, you’ll love how everything blends together!
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, I say!)
- 1 cup heavy cream for that luscious, creamy sauce
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated is the way to go for maximum flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (a pop of color and freshness)
How to Prepare Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sauteed Garlic Butter Chicken
Now, let’s get cooking! I promise, with these steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken in no time.
Step 1: Cooking the Fettuccine
First things first, let’s get that fettuccine going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz of fettuccine pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not crunchy. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. When it’s ready, drain it in a colander and set it aside. You want to keep it warm, so maybe toss a splash of olive oil on it to prevent sticking!
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The moment that butter starts to sizzle, add your cubed chicken breast (1 lb) seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Wow, the smell will be amazing! Once done, toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s all fragrant and inviting.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Next, it’s time to create that dreamy sauce! Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy goodness. Make sure to keep stirring, as this helps achieve that silky texture. It should look luscious and slightly thickened—just perfect!
Step 4: Final Assembly
Now for the best part! Add your cooked fettuccine back into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of pasta is beautifully coated in that creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens! For a finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it up immediately, and watch everyone’s eyes light up as they dig in!
FAQs About Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sauteed Garlic Butter Chicken
Got questions? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear about this creamy parmesan pasta dish.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love fettuccine, you can easily swap it for penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if that’s your jam. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
What can I add to make it healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also toss in some sautéed veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to sneak in extra nutrition. Yum!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt!), let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creaminess!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I recommend making it fresh for the best flavor and texture, but if you want to prep ahead, you can cook the chicken and pasta separately and combine them right before serving. Just add the sauce then to keep everything creamy!
What if I don’t have parmesan cheese?
If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with another hard cheese like pecorino romano. Just keep in mind, it’ll change the flavor slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Rich, creamy flavor that feels indulgent but is super simple to make.
- Tender sautéed chicken perfectly complements the pasta for a hearty meal.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or pasta types.
- Comforting and satisfying, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party.
- Leftovers (if you have any!) make for a delicious lunch the next day.
Tips for Success
Want to make your creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken even more fabulous? Here are some of my top tips to ensure you nail it every time!
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, don’t be shy! Feel free to add more minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. But if you prefer a milder taste, try reducing it to 2 cloves.
- Try Different Proteins: This dish isn’t just for chicken! You could swap it for shrimp, or even cooked sausage for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by adding veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli. Toss them in after the garlic for a quick sauté, and they’ll brighten up the dish!
- Cheese Variations: While parmesan is the star here, you could blend it with other cheeses like mozzarella for extra creaminess or even a bit of feta for a tangy kick.
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate this dish even more. Add them just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor!
- Make it Spicy: If you’re looking for a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken. It adds a nice kick!
- Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, consider tossing it with some more cream and a splash of broth to create a delicious soup the next day. Waste not, want not!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making this creamy parmesan pasta dish a true masterpiece. Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect balance!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional values provided for this creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Things like different types of pasta, butter, or even chicken can change the numbers a bit. So, while I do my best to give you a general idea, I can’t guarantee precise values. Always feel free to adjust based on your preferences or dietary needs!
What to Serve with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Now that you’ve got your creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! Pairing dishes can elevate your meal experience and bring everything together beautifully. Here are some of my favorite options:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce and adds that extra touch of indulgence to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing complements the richness of the pasta perfectly. Plus, the freshness of the greens balances everything out beautifully!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven. They’ll add a lovely, colorful touch to your plate and a delicious contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: For a simple and healthy side, serve steamed broccoli. Its bright green color adds a nice visual appeal, and the mild flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich pasta.
- Bruschetta: For a light appetizer, offer some bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s fresh, flavorful, and a great way to start the meal!
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic reduction make for a fun, bite-sized pairing that’s bursting with flavor.
With these delightful sides, your creamy parmesan pasta with sautéed garlic butter chicken will shine even brighter! Enjoy the meal and the company—it’s all about the flavors and memories we create together!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta.
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Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy parmesan pasta with sauteed garlic butter chicken is a rich and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with pasta in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the garlic amount based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Saute
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: creamy parmesan pasta, garlic butter chicken, fettuccine, Italian dish
