First Step: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Second Step: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes for most types. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Third Step: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt.
2. Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
3. Add the Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally.
4. Incorporate the Parmesan: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add the lemon juice to balance the richness.

Fourth Step: Combine the Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

1. Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked and slightly cooled, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet with the creamy garlic sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
3. Add the Chicken: Gently toss the sliced chicken into the pasta and sauce mixture, ensuring everything is well combined and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Final Step: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the Pasta: Divide the pasta into individual servings. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
2. Optional Heat: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while it’s still warm and creamy, and enjoy the comforting, delicious flavors of your homemade Marry Me Chicken Pasta!