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 after I served it on a chilly evening and everyone asked for seconds
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
- Season chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper
- Cook chicken:
- 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
- Prepare sauce base:
- Reduce heat to medium Add butter to the same skillet Once melted add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant about 1 minute
- Simmer broth:
- Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits Bring to a simmer
- Add cream:
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 3 minutes
- Add cheese:
- Gradually add Parmesan stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth
- Combine chicken:
- Return chicken to skillet Add lemon juice and chopped parsley stir to combine
- Cook pasta:
- Meanwhile cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions Drain and add to the skillet tossing to coat evenly
- Finish:
- Cook for 2 3 minutes more to let flavors meld
- Serve:
- Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired
Save This recipe always brings the family together especially on weekend dinners when everyone enjoys sharing stories over a hearty meal
Notes
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce if desired Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables
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 flavorful pasta will become your new go-to comfort food that's quick to prepare and sure to impress
Recipe FAQ
- → What spice gives the dish its kick?
The cayenne pepper adds a subtle heat that can be adjusted to taste.
- → Can I use other pasta types?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or other shapes work well and will hold the sauce nicely.
- → How is the sauce made creamy?
Combining heavy cream with melted butter, garlic, chicken broth, and Parmesan creates a smooth and rich sauce.
- → What’s the best way to cook the chicken?
Seasoned chicken is sautéed in olive oil until browned and fully cooked to ensure tenderness.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, sautéed spinach or bell peppers can be mixed in for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → Is it important to use fresh Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enriches the sauce’s flavor more than pre-grated options.