12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
Water for boiling
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Ingredients
Prepare the Pasta:
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Make the Sauce:
Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Build the Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, and oregano. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Simmer: Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Combine:
Slice the Chicken: Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Add the Chicken: Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil.
Serve:
Plate and Garnish: Divide the pasta and chicken among plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 cup of pasta with sauce and chicken
