Save A bold, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, zesty spices, and a buttery garlic-Parmesan sauce with a hint of cayenne. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household thanks to its rich sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning: 450 g (1 lb) boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference) Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sauce: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 cloves garlic minced 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 1 cup (60 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese Juice of half a lemon 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine or pasta of choice
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder cayenne pepper salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through about 6 8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant about 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 5:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 3 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Gradually add Parmesan stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 7:
- Return chicken to skillet. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley stir to combine.
- Step 8:
- Meanwhile cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet tossing to coat evenly.
- Step 9:
- Cook for 2 3 minutes more to let flavors meld.
- Step 10:
- Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Save This dish brings family together on weeknights creating warm memories around the dinner table.
Required Tools
Large skillet Large pot for boiling pasta Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon or spatula Colander
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (butter cream Parmesan) Wheat (pasta) May contain Gluten (pasta) check pasta packaging for gluten-free options if needed. Always verify ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 650 Total Fat 32 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 38 g
Save This pasta dish combines bold flavors with creamy comfort for a satisfying meal every time.
Recipe Q&A
- → How is the chicken seasoned in this dish?
The chicken is seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to build a smoky and mildly spicy flavor.
- → What type of sauce is used for the pasta?
A creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice creates a rich and flavorful coating for the pasta.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of this dish?
Yes, the amount of cayenne pepper can be modified to suit your preferred level of heat, ranging from mild to spicy.
- → What pasta types work best with this preparation?
Fettuccine is suggested, but any pasta shape like penne or rigatoni can be used, as they hold the creamy sauce well.
- → Are there any suggested ingredient substitutions?
Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce, and additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can be added for extra texture and flavor.