1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels, then rub them with olive oil. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I like to use a good amount of seasoning here to ensure the chicken really absorbs all the flavors.

Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and cooked through (165°F internally). You want to get a nice sear on the chicken, which adds so much flavor.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce. Don’t worry if there are brown bits stuck to the pan—those are flavor goldmines and will add depth to your sauce!

2. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, and once it’s sizzling, throw in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to a minute, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; garlic can turn bitter if overcooked.

Next, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Scrape up any brown bits left from the chicken—they’ll dissolve into the sauce and make it extra flavorful. Let the broth simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Now, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, oregano, and basil. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for another 4-5 minutes until it thickens up. You’ll be left with a creamy, smooth sauce that’s irresistible. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

3. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Be sure to salt your pasta water generously—this will infuse the pasta with flavor. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. This starchy water can be used to help thicken the sauce or to loosen it up if needed.

4. Combine Everything

Once the pasta is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in that dreamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and add them to the pasta, tossing everything together to combine.

5. Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates, making sure each serving gets a generous portion of that creamy sauce and chicken.