Parmesan Chicken Pasta Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Components

01 - 1 pound of chicken thighs or breast, cut into tender chunks (boneless and skinless)
02 - 3 tablespoons butter, split for a crispy, golden coating
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced finely for extra flavor
04 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) for a subtle spicy pop
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika for a warm, vibrant touch
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt to enhance flavor
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
08 - 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish

→ Creamy Pasta Ingredients

09 - 8 ounces of any pasta you like (try penne or fettuccine for best results)
10 - 2 cups heavy whipping cream
11 - 1 tablespoon olive oil, adds smoothness to the sauce
12 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added depth
13 - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
14 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a warm, hidden twist (optional)
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

# Instructions:

01 - Boil your favorite pasta in salted water until it’s just the right chewiness. Save 1/2 cup of the water before draining—it’s a game-changer for your sauce!
02 - Season the chicken bites with chili flakes (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Warm butter in a big pan, then cook the chicken until it’s gorgeously browned all over.
03 - Melt a little more butter in the pan, toss in minced garlic, and let it coat the chicken with a tempting aroma. Set this aside while we work on the sauce.
04 - In the same pan, scrape up any flavorful bits left behind. Mix together olive oil, a dab of butter, and pour in heavy cream. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg for a full-bodied mix. Keep stirring until it thickens slightly.
05 - Gently stir in Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a lush, velvety texture. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water—little by little—to get the sauce just the way you like it.
06 - Mix your cooked pasta into this creamy goodness, making sure it’s fully coated. Place the garlic butter chicken on top and sprinkle parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.

# Notes:

01 - This luscious meal combines comforting creamy pasta with wonderfully seasoned chicken.
02 - Don’t skip saving pasta water; it’s a simple trick that makes the smoothest sauces!