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 saute 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 
Save This recipe delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients for a memorable meal.
Recipe Guide
- → What cuts of chicken work best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and tender bites throughout.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, adjust the cayenne pepper amount to suit your preference, using less for mild and more for a spicier dish.
- → What type of pasta pairs well?
Fettuccine is classic here, but other shapes like penne or rigatoni work well to hold the creamy sauce.
- → How should I cook the pasta?
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and toss immediately with the sauce for best flavor absorption.
- → Can I add vegetables?
Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or other vegetables can be added alongside the chicken for extra texture and nutrition.
- → What’s a good sauce substitute for a lighter version?
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream creates a lighter sauce while keeping the dish creamy and rich.