Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Sink into the cozy embrace of Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, a dish that wraps tender chicken and al dente pasta in a velvety, garlicky cream sauce. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner with loved ones.

Its rich, savory flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to for home cooks craving comfort without the fuss. Ready to dive into this irresistible meal? Let’s get cooking!

Recipe Overview

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This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a symphony of flavors—nutty garlic, rich butter, and tender chicken meld with a luscious cream sauce. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes, and delivers restaurant-quality taste. The dish is versatile, pairing beautifully with a crisp salad or warm bread, and its creamy texture is pure comfort in every bite.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into thin strips for quick cooking and maximum tenderness.
• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti: Fettuccine holds the creamy sauce perfectly; spaghetti works for a lighter feel.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds rich, nutty depth; use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that bold, aromatic punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luxurious sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick; freshly grated melts better.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil for subtle complexity.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the richness.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.

Note: Use fresh garlic and parsley for vibrant flavor. Room-temperature cream blends more smoothly into the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
   Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and don’t rinse the pasta—it needs its starch to help the sauce cling.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While pasta cooks, season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove to a plate and cover to keep warm.
   Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure a nice sear.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt, then stir in minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
   Tip: Fresh garlic burns easily, so keep the heat moderate and stir frequently.
4. Build the Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan, remaining Italian seasoning, and a pinch of black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
   Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more pasta water for the perfect consistency.
5. Combine and Serve: Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to warm through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
   Tip: Toss gently to keep the pasta strands intact and evenly coated.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Check doneness with a meat thermometer to keep it juicy. Overcooking leads to dry, tough chicken.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor far beyond dried alternatives.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper after adding Parmesan, as it’s naturally salty.
• Prevent Sauce Separation: Keep the heat low when adding cream to avoid curdling, and stir continuously.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the sauce and avoids mushiness.

Serving Suggestions

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Serve this creamy pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal. For drinks, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon complements the rich flavors. For a stunning presentation, twirl the pasta into nests using tongs and garnish with extra Parmesan and a sprig of parsley.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Let leftovers cool for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating to prevent spoilage.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note: Cream sauces may separate slightly when frozen, so stir well when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work great, as their shapes trap the sauce. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, which may break under the rich sauce.

Can I substitute heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work, but the sauce will be less creamy. Avoid low-fat milk, as it may curdle.

How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half the butter and swap heavy cream for evaporated milk. Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for bulk.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like seasonings, are gluten-free certified.

What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer it longer to reduce, or add a bit more Parmesan to thicken. Avoid adding flour, as it can make the sauce grainy.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is your ticket to a cozy, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Its creamy, garlicky goodness will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with us! Happy cooking!