Save to Pinterest 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 favorite in my household because of its rich taste and simple prep time.
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 to Pinterest My family loves gathering around this pasta after a busy day, sharing stories over warm plates.
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 to Pinterest This dish comes together quickly and delights the palate with its rich and spicy sauce.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Fettuccine is recommended, but any pasta like penne or rigatoni can be used based on preference.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to increase or reduce the heat according to your taste.
- → Can I substitute ingredients in the sauce?
Half-and-half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce, and fresh parsley adds bright flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
Cook chicken pieces until no longer pink inside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- → What are good vegetable additions for this dish?
Sautéed spinach or bell peppers can be added to increase freshness and color.