Parmesan Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken Prep

01 - 1 pound juicy boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small chunks
02 - 3 tablespoons butter, split up for a perfect sear
03 - 3 minced garlic cloves, nice and fresh
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika for vibrant color and big flavor
05 - 1/2 teaspoon of salt to season
06 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
07 - 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes if you like a little heat (optional)
08 - 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped up finely for extra freshness

→ Pasta Base

09 - 8 ounces of any pasta you love (penne or fettuccine are great choices)
10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil for smoothness and flavor
11 - 2 cups rich heavy cream
12 - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated for the best taste
13 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder for some extra zing
14 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
15 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for a little bite
16 - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a surprise warm note (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Boil your pasta in salty water until it's perfectly chewy. Before you drain it, don’t forget to save half a cup of the water – it’s going to make your sauce silky smooth.
02 - Season your chicken chunks with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you're feeling bold. Melt butter in a pan, then cook the chicken on medium heat until all pieces are browned and tasty.
03 - Toss in some more butter along with minced garlic, stirring it to release all that fragrant goodness. Once everything smells incredible, set it aside while you make your sauce.
04 - Using the same skillet to keep the flavor going, stir olive oil and butter together. Add in heavy cream and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re in the mood. Let it bubble gently until it thickens up a bit.
05 - Slowly stir in grated Parmesan cheese and watch it melt down into the sauce. Use the pasta water you saved to make it all smooth and creamy – adjust it to your liking!
06 - Mix your cooked pasta thoroughly through the creamy sauce, making sure it’s covered completely. Lay the garlic butter chicken on top and sprinkle parsley for a beautiful finish.

# Notes:

01 - This dish brings together creamy pasta and perfectly seasoned chicken for an irresistible combo.
02 - Saving pasta water is the trick to nailing that silky sauce texture – don’t skip this step!