Save Tender, Southern-spiced chicken crowns rich, silky parmesan cream sauce tossed with pasta for a true comfort classic with Italian flair ready in just 30 minutes.
This recipe combines rich flavors and quick preparation perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¾-inch thickness), 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste), 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 3 tbsp olive oil
- Pasta: 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- Sauce: 4 tbsp butter, 4 cloves garlic minced, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 4 oz cream cheese softened, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Garnish: 2 strips bacon cooked and crumbled (optional), 2 green onions sliced, ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, Red pepper flakes (to taste), Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place chicken breasts between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to ¾-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Step 2:
- In a small bowl combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3:
- Season both sides of the chicken thoroughly with the spice mixture.
- Step 4:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6 7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate, let rest 5 minutes, then slice into strips. Reserve skillet drippings.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 6:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic sauté 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a light roux.
- Step 7:
- Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk. Add Worcestershire sauce. Simmer, whisking, until slightly thickened (about 3 4 minutes).
- Step 8:
- Remove pan from heat. Whisk in cream cheese until fully smooth. Add Parmesan cheese in batches, stirring until melted and sauce is velvety.
- Step 9:
- Stir in lemon juice. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Step 10:
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Step 11:
- Arrange sliced chicken over pasta or mix in. Reheat gently if needed.
- Step 12:
- Top with bacon (if using), green onions, parsley, red pepper flakes, and extra cracked black pepper. Serve hot with additional Parmesan if desired.
Save This dish always brings the family together for a warm and satisfying meal.
Required Tools
Large skillet, Large pot, Medium saucepan, Meat mallet, Whisk, Tongs, Cheese grater, Colander
Allergen Information
Contains Milk/Dairy (cream, milk, Parmesan, cream cheese, butter), Wheat/Gluten (pasta, flour). Bacon may contain sulfites. Individuals with allergies should double-check all ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 545, Total Fat: 30 g, Carbohydrates: 39 g, Protein: 33 g (per serving)
Save This creamy parmesan chicken pasta is a go-to recipe for quick comfort that never disappoints.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly and remain juicy. Letting the cooked chicken rest before slicing also preserves moisture.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, fettuccine or penne both work well. Aim for pasta that holds sauce nicely to complement the creamy parmesan coating.
- → How do I prevent the parmesan sauce from curdling?
Use freshly grated parmesan and avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese. Gently whisk the cheese in off heat to achieve a smooth sauce.
- → What adjustments can I make for a lighter sauce?
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter but creamy texture.
- → Is bacon necessary for flavor?
Bacon adds a smoky crunch and depth but can be omitted or replaced with sautéed mushrooms or extra herbs for different flavor profiles.