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.
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 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.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 650 Total Fat 32 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 38 g
Save Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I ensure the chicken is cooked properly?
Cook chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned and no longer pink inside, approximately 6–8 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- → Can I use a different pasta type?
Yes, any pasta shape such as penne or rigatoni works well. Cook according to package instructions before tossing with the sauce.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or omit it for milder flavor.
- → Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter, less rich sauce while maintaining creamy texture.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan enhance the flavors and presentation of the pasta nicely.