Pin 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 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
Calories: 650 Total Fat: 32 g Carbohydrates: 54 g Protein: 38 g
Pin Enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish with friends and family.
Recipe Q&A
- → What spices give this dish its bold flavor?
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper combine to provide smoky, savory, and mildly spicy notes.
- → Can I use a different pasta type?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape works well to hold the creamy sauce.
- → How do I adjust the spiciness level?
Modify the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference, starting with less and adding more as desired.
- → Is there a lighter option for the sauce?
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream can create a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What’s the best way to ensure tender chicken pieces?
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed spinach or bell peppers make great additions for extra color and nutrition.