Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Seared Chicken

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt & black pepper (to taste)

8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)

3 tbsp butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare chicken: Season chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Sear chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove, let rest, then slice.

4. Make sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.

5. Add cheese: Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning.

6. Combine: Toss pasta with the sauce, top with sliced chicken. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes.