Pin this 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.
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.
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Pin this Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine is recommended for a perfect sauce coating, but any pasta like penne or rigatoni can be used based on preference.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the cayenne pepper quantity to suit your desired heat, starting small if sensitive to spice.
- → Can I make the sauce lighter?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken?
Cook chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes, ensuring they reach 165°F internally.
- → Are there good vegetable additions?
Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables can be added to boost nutrition and flavor complexity.