Pin it 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.
Pin it Notes
Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 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.
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Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Fettuccine is commonly used, but penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta shape can hold the creamy sauce well.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste, starting with less and adding more for extra heat.
- → Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
While chicken provides tenderness and flavor, shrimp or turkey could be great alternatives when cooked similarly.
- → Is it possible to lighten the sauce?
Substituting half-and-half for heavy cream creates a lighter, but still creamy texture and flavor.
- → What garnish complements this dish?
Fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan add color and enhance the buttery, garlicky flavors.