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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Decadent 35 Min Meal

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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A quick and easy weeknight meal featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich, creamy garlic parmesan sauce served over cheesy spaghetti. This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy families.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8oz each)
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (packed)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to rest.
  5. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Do not boil.
  7. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  8. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat all the noodles. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  10. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
  11. Nestle the rested chicken breasts back into the skillet on top of the spaghetti.
  12. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and gooey.
  13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce may be less luxurious.
  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting results. Asiago cheese can be used as a substitute.
  • Any long pasta shape can be used instead of spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta works well.
  • Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried; add 1 tbsp of chopped fresh basil or oregano at the end of cooking the sauce.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts; cook 2-3 minutes longer per side.
  • For added flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
  • Slice chicken before serving if desired.

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