Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

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A rich, comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed with Parmesan. It’s simple, flavorful, and ideal for a quick homemade dinner that tastes restaurant-quality.

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that never disappoints. The combination of juicy chicken, fragrant garlic, and silky butter sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs, and you have a balanced dish that works for any occasion.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: about 35 minutes

Calories (Approximate)

  • Per serving: 500–700 calories

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Pasta

  • 300g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • Salted water for boiling

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4–5 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (optional for creamy version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Extra Parmesan

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
  4. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In the same pan, melt butter.
  2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Pour in heavy cream (if using) and simmer.
  4. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

4. Combine

  1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce.
  2. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
  3. Return chicken to the pan and mix well.

5. Serve

  1. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
  2. Serve warm.

Tips for Success

  • Do not burn the garlic; cook it gently
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
  • Let chicken rest briefly before adding back

How to Serve

  • Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad
  • Pair with a light drink or sparkling water
  • Add roasted vegetables on the side

Variations

  • Add mushrooms or spinach
  • Use shrimp instead of chicken
  • Make it lighter without cream
  • Add lemon juice for freshness

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether you go creamy or keep it simple, it’s a reliable recipe that works for both everyday meals and special occasions.

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