Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If using, add the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg