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 dish quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavor and ease of preparation.
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 recipe brings the family together every time, creating joyful moments around the dinner table.
Notes
Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables. Any pasta shape works; try penne or rigatoni. Adjust cayenne to taste for spice level.
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.
Save This dish is perfect for any night of the week and always impresses guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What chicken cut works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure quick and even cooking.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, modify the cayenne pepper amount to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → What pasta varieties are recommended?
Fettuccine is ideal but rigatoni, penne, or similar shapes work well to hold the sauce.
- → How to achieve a creamy sauce texture?
Simmer heavy cream with butter, garlic, chicken broth, and Parmesan until smooth and slightly thickened.
- → Can extra vegetables be added?
Sautéed spinach or bell peppers make great additions to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- → How to ensure chicken is safely cooked?
Cook chicken until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached for safety.