A creamy, cheesy pasta with juicy chicken and garlic-Parmesan sauce — quick enough for weeknights, satisfying enough for company.
1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp butter, divided
1 tbsp olive oil
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley and extra cheese for garnish (optional)
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear in olive oil and 1 tbsp butter until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes.
Add broth, cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan until smooth and melted.
Add cooked pasta and chicken. Toss to coat. Simmer 1–2 minutes to combine.
Garnish and serve hot.
Add veggies like spinach or peas.
Use half-and-half or light cream for a lower-fat version.
Great with garlic bread or a green salad.