Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta combines rich flavors and a comforting texture that makes it an ideal choice for a quick family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The dish is simple yet satisfying, featuring tender chicken, pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce that brings everything together beautifully. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish, creating a meal that will impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen.
Why We Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious meal that feels gourmet. The combination of garlic and butter adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and pasta. You can also customize it with various herbs or vegetables to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish that caters to everyone at the table. Plus, the creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta and piece of chicken, ensuring that each bite is rich and satisfying. In addition, this dish allows you to use pantry staples, making it a convenient option for spontaneous dinners. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this recipe always delivers.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, simmering for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Serving Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that elevates this simple dish. Begin by plating the pasta elegantly. You can twist the strands onto the plate using a fork or a pasta twirl tool for a more refined presentation. Drizzle a little extra garlic butter sauce over the top for that shiny, tempting finish.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. If you like, offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who wish to enhance the dish even further. Pair your pasta with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add some crunch and freshness to your meal. You can also consider serving some crusty bread alongside to soak up any extra sauce. This combination makes for a delightful dining experience that will leave everyone satisfied.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
To make your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta even more delicious, consider the following expert tips. First, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh garlic and good-quality butter enhance the flavor significantly. You can experiment with various types of pasta. While spaghetti is classic, options like fettuccine or penne can create different textures and experiences.
When cooking the chicken, ensure it’s cut into uniform pieces for even cooking. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly with olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking. Be cautious not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant, then quickly move on to adding the liquid ingredients.
For a burst of freshness, you can add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta just before serving. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish also holds well for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep.
How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Storing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is straightforward and allows you to enjoy this delightful dish later. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent moisture and air from affecting the flavor and texture. You can store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Variations of Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous delicious variations. For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for a combination of Greek yogurt and a splash of chicken broth. This substitution offers a creamy texture with fewer calories.
You can also customize the dish with different proteins. Substituting shrimp or even tofu for the chicken brings a new flavor profile and accommodates dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix for added nutrition and taste.
Herbs and spices offer another easy way to alter the recipe. Fresh basil, thyme, or even oregano can elevate the dish. You could also go for a lemon-infused version by adding lemon juice and zest for a bright, refreshing finish. Experiment with various cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. With these variations, you can create countless iterations of this classic dish.
FAQ about Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
What is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish that features chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta for a delightful meal.
How can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta spicier?
To add spice to Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce or use spicy seasoning on the chicken before cooking.
Can I use whole wheat pasta for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used in Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for a healthier twist, providing added fiber without sacrificing flavor.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Consider pairing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to complete your meal.
Can I prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer storage.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauce and Assembly
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, simmering for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!