If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly, this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender chicken pieces cooked to golden perfection, tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, combined with perfectly al dente pasta, and finished with the fresh brightness of parsley and a squeeze of lemon. This dish is a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that feels both indulgent and homey – a true crowd-pleaser for any weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one has a role to play in creating that irresistible taste and texture, lending the dish layers of richness, warmth, and freshness.
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta: Choose your favorite long pasta to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and adding a subtle fruity flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The star for that rich, silky sauce base.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides the bold, aromatic punch that defines this dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat to balance the richness if you like a little kick.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps build the sauce with a savory depth and keeps everything moist.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty goodness that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh, vibrant contrast and lovely color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and seasoning to the chicken.
- Lemon wedges for serving: A squeeze of lemon brightens up each bite and complements the garlicky richness perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures it has just the right bite — firm yet tender. Don’t forget to save half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it will help create a silky sauce later on.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes. You want the pieces to develop a beautiful golden crust on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. Once cooked through, remove them from the skillet and set aside. This step locks in the chicken’s flavor and texture.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt the butter until it starts to bubble. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Sauté everything for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This part fills your kitchen with the promise of the deliciousness to come.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Then, add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. The starch from the pasta water helps create a luscious, smooth coating on the noodles.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Herbs
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. The cheese melts gently into the sauce, thickening it further and adding a savory, slightly nutty flavor while the parsley offers a bright pop of color and freshness that keeps the dish feeling light and balanced.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the plated pasta adds an irresistible zing that cuts through the richness beautifully. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and chopped parsley on top for a colorful and tasty finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. The freshness and crunch of these sides provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, garlicky chicken pasta. Garlic bread or crusty bread are excellent companions for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, twirl the pasta into nests on each plate and place the chicken pieces strategically on top. Adding a few whole basil leaves or edible flowers can elevate the visual appeal for a dinner party or special family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making leftovers just as satisfying as the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, though the texture of the pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze in portion-sized airtight containers and consume within 2 months to enjoy the flavors at their peak.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen the sauce. This prevents the pasta from drying out and helps restore the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving on high heat, which can make the chicken rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti or linguine works best for coating with the garlic butter sauce, penne, fettuccine, or even farfalle would be delicious substitutes. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the chicken for firm tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The garlic butter sauce still shines beautifully!
How can I make this dish creamier?
For an extra-rich and creamy sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream right after adding the chicken broth. It adds a lovely silkiness that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan and garlic.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and keep them refrigerated separately. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
What should I do if I don’t like spicy food?
If you prefer to avoid heat, simply omit the red pepper flakes. The garlic butter sauce is still bursting with flavor and will be perfect without the spice.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your garlic and butter, and treat yourself to this cozy, satisfying meal – your dinner plans just got a whole lot better!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a deliciously easy dinner recipe that combines tender chicken, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner with a touch of Italian-American flair.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes, reducing slightly and blending the flavors.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley until evenly combined. Serve the pasta warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce during the simmer step.
- This recipe can be easily adapted using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
- Reserve some pasta water carefully as it helps to loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Add additional red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
