Eric Gandler: There’s something special about gathering the family around the table for a warm, comforting meal after a long week. In my Clifton Park kitchen, I like to keep things simple, flavorful, and made from scratch — no shortcuts, just real ingredients. This creamy garlic chicken pasta is one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty that everyone loves.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 8 oz fettuccine or linguine

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.

  3. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a light simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

  5. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat everything evenly.

  6. Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy.

Eric’s Tip from Clifton Park

Don’t rush the sauce — give it time to thicken naturally. The secret to rich flavor is letting the garlic and Parmesan really meld with the cream. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a simple garden salad for a balanced dinner that feels like a restaurant meal right at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

Clifton Park gets chilly this time of year, and this dish brings warmth to the table every time. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to share with guests. Cooking for me isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating something comforting that brings people together.
Eric Gandler, Clifton Park