Creamy Parmesan Pasta With Garlic Butter Chicken: A Family-Friendly Feast

When it comes to satisfying meals that the whole family will love, it’s hard to beat the classic combination of chicken and pasta. And when you add in the mouthwatering flavors of garlic butter and creamy Parmesan sauce? It’s a recipe for dinnertime bliss. Creamy Parmesan Pasta With Garlic Butter Chicken is a dish that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but special enough for a weekend gathering with loved ones.

What You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (your favorite shape)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make It

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cut into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Recipe Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes or accommodate what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite veggies instead.
• Bacon: Cook a few slices of bacon until crisp, crumble, and sprinkle over the finished dish for a smoky, salty kick.
• Herb-forward: Stir in a tablespoon or two of chopped fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for an extra pop of flavor.
• Protein swap: Try swapping the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or sliced sausage.

Why This Recipe Works

Creamy Parmesan Pasta With Garlic Butter Chicken is more than just a tasty meal – it’s a smart choice for busy home cooks. Here’s why:

1. One pot, minimal cleanup: By cooking the chicken and building the sauce in the same skillet, you cut down on dishes without sacrificing flavor.
2. Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps and a short ingredient list, this recipe comes together in under an hour. Perfect for hectic weeknights!
3. Crowd-pleasing flavors: Garlic, butter, cream, and cheese? It’s a winning combo that appeals to kids and adults alike.
4. Balanced meal: Protein-rich chicken, hearty pasta, and a luscious sauce make for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner. Add a simple green salad and you’re all set.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Pasta With Garlic Butter Chicken is a recipe that deserves a place in your regular rotation. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for everyday cooking but impressive enough for entertaining. Plus, with plenty of room for customization, it’s a versatile recipe that you can make your own. So next time you’re craving something comforting, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, give this delightful pasta dish a try. Your family will thank you – and so will your taste buds!