This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a reliable dupe of a popular restaurant dish. It’s rich, with heavy cream and Parmesan making the base of the sauce, but the addition of spinach and tomatoes adds a burst of freshness. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’ll have you reaching for seconds. The ingredients of Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta are common enough that you can keep them in stock and whip up this pasta whenever your heart desires.
Ingredients
- 10 ounces short pasta, such as penne
- 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 2 cups spinach, optional, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded or grated
Directions
Step 1 –Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta al dente, according to the package instructions.
Step 2 –Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the garlic powder, the Italian seasoning, the paprika, the salt, and the pepper.
Step 3 –Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat.
Step 4 –Once the oil is shimmering hot, cook the chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
Step 5 –Remove the chicken from the heat and set them aside.
Step 6 –In the same pan, add the butter and the garlic, cooking until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 7 –Add the tomato and the spinach, and cook until they are soft, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 8 –Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream and the parmesan cheese. Whisk the mixture until it is fully incorporated and creamy.
Step 9 –Add the salt and the pepper, as needed.
Step 10 –Drain the pasta.
Step 11 –Slice the chicken into thin slices or cubes.
Step 12 –Add the chicken and the pasta to the pan with the sauce.
Step 13 –Stir to combine, and serve!
