Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is a rich, garlicky 30-minute dinner made with tender chicken, penne pasta, Parmesan, spinach, and a smooth cream or coconut milk sauce.
Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta
3 thin-sliced chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons flour, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder
1 can full-fat coconut milk or 1½ cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon salt, for sauce
½ teaspoon black pepper, for sauce
¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
5 ounces baby spinach
Instructions
1. Cook the penne pasta in boiling water until tender but still firm, then drain.
2. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the chicken until fully done, then remove it from the skillet and slice.
5. Add garlic and lemon juice to the same pan and cook briefly until fragrant.
6. Stir in the flour, cornstarch, or arrowroot powder and cook until lightly golden.
7. Gradually whisk in the coconut milk or heavy cream.
8. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce.
9. Turn off the heat, then mix in salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Parmesan, and spinach until the spinach wilts.
10. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
11. Serve topped with sliced chicken and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Using thin chicken cuts helps reduce cooking time.
Chicken can be sliced into smaller pieces before serving for easier eating.
Red pepper flakes can be omitted or served separately for a milder flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving