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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, savory pasta dish combining tender chicken, rich Parmesan cheese, and a luscious garlic-infused sauce with spaghetti pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting and family-friendly meal blends indulgent flavors with simple pantry staples, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or cubed

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti pasta

Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Garnish and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest before cutting or shredding.
  2. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
  3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine with Cheese: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water.
  5. Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked chicken and drained spaghetti back into the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat evenly with the sauce. Heat through for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Plate the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Spaghetti and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a bolder and more aromatic flavor compared to powdered garlic.
  • Grate Parmesan Yourself: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior taste compared to pre-grated cheese.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps thin the sauce and makes it cling better to the spaghetti.
  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking pasta al dente maintains its texture and prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
  • Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Proper cooking ensures juicy and tender chicken without dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken, Chicken Spaghetti, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Quick Dinner, One-Pot Meal