Creamy Chicken Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Items

01 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
02 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
04 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
05 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
06 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
07 - 8 ounces penne pasta
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 1 cup chicken broth
13 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

# Instructions:

01 - Warm a big skillet on medium heat, then pour in the olive oil.
02 - Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried basil on both sides of the chicken breasts while the skillet heats.
03 - Place the chicken breasts in the heated skillet, cooking for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully done and golden.
04 - Move the chicken to a cutting board and leave it there for a few minutes.
05 - Slice the rested chicken into thin strips, then set it aside.
06 - Add the minced garlic into the same skillet and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until it smells wonderful.
07 - Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then scrape up any little brown bits stuck at the bottom while it begins to simmer.
08 - Stir heavy cream into the mixture and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly to thicken.
09 - In a large pot with boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta as the package says. It’ll usually be about 8-10 minutes.
10 - Drain the cooked pasta, hold onto about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.
11 - Turn the skillet's heat to low and mix in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted.
12 - Throw the pasta into the creamy skillet, stirring to get it all coated evenly.
13 - For a thinner sauce, add a bit of the saved pasta water to get the texture you’re after.
14 - Toss in the chicken strips and season the dish with the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
15 - Once everything is warmed up and combined, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, then serve.

# Notes:

01 - Check the chicken is properly cooked by making sure its temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
02 - For extra creaminess, use more heavy cream or switch it out with half-and-half.
03 - Marinate the chicken in olive oil, herbs, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking to pack in flavor.
04 - Try topping the dish with a little extra Parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
05 - Spice it up by adding more red pepper flakes to match your taste.

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