Preparation Method:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden.
Create the sauce base: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the cheese and seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Slice the chicken: While the sauce is simmering, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Add the chicken: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing it with the pasta and sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Serve the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Garnish and serve: Divide the creamy pasta and chicken among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta immediately, while it’s hot and fresh. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better into the sauce and provides a richer, more authentic flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce.
Adjust the consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your liking.
Customize your dish: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
ENJOY IT 💛
