Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender chicken and creamy pasta. It is a satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Not only is it easy to make, but it also pleases the entire family with its comforting flavors. The combination of cream, cheese, and spices offers a taste experience that everyone will love.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the creamy pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta warm straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
To store Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken so that it remains juicy and tender.
- If you want a little more spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried parsley can also work in a pinch.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes. Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
FAQs
-
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used as a healthier alternative. It will add a nutty flavor to the dish. -
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, cream cheese, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream if you want a lighter version. -
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is great for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the creamy pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.