Are you craving a rich, creamy, and savory pasta dish that’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor? Look no further! This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken combined with a silky Parmesan sauce, making it an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. The allure of this dish lies in its mouthwatering aroma and the satisfying way the creamy sauce envelops each bite. Plus, it comes together in a matter of minutes!
If you’re a fan of garlic butter chicken and creamy pasta dishes, this recipe is about to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s not only easy to make, but it also offers the kind of rich flavors that you’d find in a high-end restaurant, all while being simple enough for everyday dining. Let’s dive into the magic of this easy-to-make yet restaurant-quality meal that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Parmesan creates a creamy, savory sauce that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Perfectly adaptable with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Family-Friendly: A sure hit among both adults and kids, making mealtime effortless.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Preparation is key when it comes to cooking this delectable dish. Start by gathering your ingredients and equipment: a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce, and a colander for draining the pasta. Remember to have measuring cups and spoons handy, as well as a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the chicken. To ensure everything runs smoothly, measure out all your ingredients before starting, so you can focus solely on the cooking process without interruptions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta (fettuccine is highly recommended for this dish). Be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results. One secret to maintaining a creamy sauce is to reserve some of the pasta cooking water, so remember to save about ½ cup before draining the pasta!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
Next, take your bite-sized chicken pieces and season them generously with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil followed by butter. Let the butter melt and foam slightly before adding the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic, sautéing for an additional minute before removing it from the heat. Set this flavorful mixture aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Next, introduce the minced garlic, allowing it to sauté and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Once fragrant, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until the cheese melts completely, resulting in a smooth and creamy sauce. To elevate the flavor, season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
Once your pasta is cooked and your sauce is ready, it’s time to bring the dish together. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing it gently in the creamy sauce until each strand is thoroughly coated. To finish, carefully pile on the garlic butter chicken bites, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and more grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot, and watch as everyone indulges in this cozy dinner!
Variations
- Protein: Try substituting chicken with shrimp, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to amp up the nutritional profile.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like crushed red pepper for a spicy kick or lemon zest for added freshness.
Cooking Notes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Using fresh garlic is key for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
- For a richer sauce, consider adding cream cheese alongside the heavy cream.
- Adjust the cream and cheese amounts based on how rich you want the dish to be.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips
- For best results, cut your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Customize the recipe to your taste by adding herbs such as basil or thyme for additional freshness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
While the pasta is best fresh, you can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just assemble and reheat before serving.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Consider salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables as perfect accompaniments to balance the meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. The captivating combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a satisfying dish that will please friends and family alike. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees to impress. We encourage you to try it out and share your own variations or experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta recipe is a blend of tender chicken and creamy sauce perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta (fettuccine is highly recommended for this dish). Be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
- Season chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter, and cook the chicken until golden brown, then add minced garlic and sauté for a minute.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter, add minced garlic, then pour in heavy cream, simmer gently. Gradually stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, add the chicken, toss to coat, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, cut your chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. Customize the recipe with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 30 g