Description
This garlicky saucy pasta is your ultimate weeknight comfort food. Juicy golden-seared chicken, creamy garlic parmesan sauce, and tender spaghetti come together in one pan for a quick dinner idea that feels gourmet. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal, easy recipe for entertaining, or delicious food ideas with chicken and pasta, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s bold, creamy, and packed with flavor – perfect for quick dinners or elegant nights in.
Ingredients
2 boneless chicken breasts
8 ounces spaghetti
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter (plus more as needed)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear chicken in butter over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Lower heat and add more butter to the same skillet. Add garlic and cook gently until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, stir to deglaze, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add parmesan and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Toss in diced tomatoes and warm through.
7. Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and reserve 1 cup pasta water.
8. Add cooked spaghetti to sauce, tossing well. Use pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
9. Return chicken to skillet, warm through, and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Notes
Don’t skip the pasta water—this helps emulsify and loosen the sauce.
Let the garlic cook low and slow to avoid bitterness and bring out its sweetness.
Sear the chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming and get that golden crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: easy dinner, garlicky pasta, creamy chicken pasta, comfort food, quick pasta recipe, weeknight meals