My kitchen is always on the warmer side the moment I start thinking about garlic butter chicken pasta. You know that feeling when you’re craving comfort food but also want something a bit indulgent? This recipe hits that sweet spot like a culinary hug. Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken sizzle in a skillet, soaking up the richness of melted butter and aromatic garlic before they meet a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. It’s that marriage of flavors and textures—creamy, garlicky sauce enveloping al dente noodles and succulent chicken—that keeps me coming back to this dish time and again.
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta that’s perfect for any dinner table! In just 15 minutes of prep and about 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table that clocks in around 650 calories per serving. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is beginner-friendly and flexible enough for customization. From adding a handful of fresh spinach to tossing in some sautéed mushrooms, you can easily elevate the dish to your personal taste. So roll up your sleeves, dust off your favorite skillet, and let’s dive into this weeknight winner that brings effortless elegance right to your home kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN PASTA
Every outstanding dish starts with quality ingredients that work in harmony. For this garlic butter chicken pasta, we’ve selected components that bring balance, flavor, and a touch of indulgence. Let’s explore what each one does to make this recipe shine:
- pasta
This is the canvas for all our flavors. Whether you choose spaghetti, fettuccine, or another long cut, al dente pasta provides that perfect chewiness and absorbency so the sauce clings beautifully to every strand.
- olive oil
A splash of fruity olive oil heats quickly in the skillet, helping to develop a golden-brown crust on the chicken without burning the garlic later on. It also prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness.
- boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cut into bite-sized pieces, chicken breasts cook evenly and soak up the garlicky butter sauce. Their mild flavor means they become perfect carriers for all the seasonings.
- salt and black pepper
Simple but essential. Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish, while freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and bite.
- unsalted butter
The backbone of our sauce, unsalted butter brings a creamy mouthfeel and lusciousness. Using unsalted butter allows for precise seasoning control.
- garlic, minced
Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here. Its pungent, savory notes infuse the butter, giving the sauce that unmistakable garlic-forward character that makes this pasta truly irresistible.
- red pepper flakes (optional)
A pinch introduces a gentle heat that cuts through the richness. Feel free to adjust the amount to dial the spiciness up or down.
- chicken broth
Adds depth and a savory foundation to the sauce while helping to deglaze the skillet and capture all the browned bits from cooking the chicken.
- heavy cream
Transforms the broth into a velvety sauce. Heavy cream brings body and silkiness, rounding out the flavors and making each forkful incredibly luxurious.
- Parmesan cheese, grated
This nutty, salty cheese thickens the sauce as it melts, adding umami richness and a satisfyingly smooth texture.
- fresh parsley, chopped
Sprinkled on top for a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
- lemon wedges (optional)
A quick squeeze of lemon juice just before serving lifts the richness with bright citrusy zing, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
HOW TO MAKE GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN PASTA
Ready to transform these ingredients into a one-pan wonder? The following steps will guide you through each stage—from boiling your pasta to tossing everything together in a glossy sauce. Pay attention to the timing and keep your skillet hot but not scorching, so each element cooks to perfection.
1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Be sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta so it cooks evenly. Once the noodles are al dente, drain thoroughly and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water just in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it warms, season the chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to ensure each bite is flavorful.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally so every side achieves a lovely sear. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest, preserving those flavorful browned bits in the pan.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any stuck-on bits. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
6. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth, adjusting the heat as needed to avoid boiling the cream vigorously.
7. Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together, making sure each strand of pasta and piece of chicken is evenly coated in that lush, creamy sauce.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired. A quick squeeze of lemon just before digging in will add a bright pop that perfectly balances the rich, buttery flavors.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN PASTA
Once your garlic butter chicken pasta is ready, it deserves a presentation that matches its comforting flavors. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving ideas will elevate every plate and make the meal even more memorable.
- Rustic family-style platter
Transfer the pasta to a large, shallow serving bowl or platter. Tear extra fresh parsley leaves over the top and place lemon wedges around the edge. Let everyone help themselves for that warm, communal feeling that turns dinner into an event.
- Garnish with extra cheese
Keep a small bowl of finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano at the table. Guests can sprinkle additional cheese for a cheesier, saltier finish that accentuates the creamy sauce.
- Pair with crusty garlic bread
The leftover garlic butter in the pan is perfect for brushing on slices of baguette or ciabatta. Toast under the broiler until golden and serve alongside to sop up every last drop of sauce.
- Serve with a crisp salad
Balance the richness with a simple side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy pasta, completing your plate beautifully.
HOW TO STORE GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN PASTA
If you happen to have leftovers (and believe me, many of us do!), proper storage ensures you’ll enjoy this dish again without losing any of its creamy magic. Follow these tips so your garlic butter chicken pasta stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to reheat.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let the pasta cool slightly before transferring to a sealed container. It will keep for up to 3–4 days, preserving the sauce’s creaminess and preventing the noodles from drying out.
- Freeze individual portions. For longer storage, place single servings in freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out excess air to avoid ice crystals. Label with the date and use within 2 months for the best taste.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to a skillet over medium-low heat and stir in the pasta until warmed through. This gentle reheating method helps to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency without overcooking the chicken.
- Avoid the microwave if possible. While convenient, microwaving can make the pasta gummy and the sauce separate. If you must use the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring often and adding a drizzle of broth to help maintain moisture.
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re a busy home cook in need of a quick weeknight dinner or an aspiring foodie looking to impress friends, this garlic butter chicken pasta recipe delivers on every level. We’ve walked through each step from boiling the perfect al dente pasta to achieving that sumptuous, velvety sauce studded with tender chicken and fragrant garlic. Along the way, you’ve learned about ingredient roles—from the umami boost of Parmesan to the bright finish of fresh parsley and lemon wedges. With only 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, plus straightforward beginner-friendly instructions, this dish becomes your go-to solution when you want something both effortless and elevated.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later use—tuck it into your recipe binder or pin it on the fridge so it’s always within reach. You can also find a FAQ section below that answers common questions about ingredient substitutions, spice adjustments, and ways to make this recipe your own. If you give this garlic butter chicken pasta a try, please leave a comment or share your feedback. Did you add mushrooms, swap in whole grain pasta, or kick up the heat with extra red pepper flakes? I’d love to hear how it turned out, any tips you discovered, or questions you have about the process. Happy cooking, and here's to many delicious pasta nights ahead!
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Description
Experience the succulent flavors of tender chicken enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with your favorite pasta. It's comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
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Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to slightly reduce.
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Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
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Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Note
- For extra creaminess, try adding a little more heavy cream.
- This dish can be elevated with the addition of sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Adjust the level of garlic to suit your taste preference.
- Substitute whole grain pasta for a healthier alternative.
- To kick up the heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
