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.
This pasta quickly became a family favorite after I first tried adding cayenne to the sauce for an extra kick. Everyone loved it and asked for seconds.
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 sauté 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 This dish always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories while enjoying each bite.
Notes
Add sautéed spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables. Any pasta shape works; try penne or rigatoni. Adjust cayenne to taste for spice level.
Required Tools
Large skillet, large pot for boiling pasta, chef's knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula, colander
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan), Wheat (pasta). May contain Gluten (pasta) check pasta packaging for gluten-free options if needed. Always verify ingredient labels if you have food allergies.
Save Enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta dish as a perfect meal for weeknights or special occasions.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I control the spice level?
Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to your preference, starting with half a teaspoon for mild heat or up to a full teaspoon for more kick.
- → Can I substitute the pasta type?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape works well; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- → What is the best way to cook chicken for this dish?
Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- → Can I lighten the sauce?
Substituting half-and-half for heavy cream will create a lighter sauce while maintaining creaminess.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Sautéed spinach or diced bell peppers can be stirred in with the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the sauce is smooth?
Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan while stirring to melt it evenly into the cream mixture, avoiding lumps.