If you’re craving a meal that melds comfort and elegance in one skillet, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe. This dish is an absolute gem, bringing together tender, juicy chicken, luscious garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to create a flavor-packed bowl that feels special without any hassle. It’s the kind of recipe that turns any ordinary weeknight into a cozy celebration, guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table with its rich, creamy goodness and just the right hint of garlic. Once you try this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun in making this dish. Each simple component plays an essential role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe shine—from the hearty chicken breasts to fresh cherry tomatoes that brighten things up with a pop of color and acidity.
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice: Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne all work wonderfully, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a subtle fruitiness while helping to sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680g): The star protein, juicy and tender once cooked.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a concentrated garlic punch that complements the fresh garlic perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings an herby depth with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: The richness that makes the sauce so silky and indulgent.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the heart of this recipe, delivering bold flavor and aroma.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory notes while thinning the sauce just enough to coat the pasta.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistible creaminess everyone dreams of in their pasta dishes.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty layer that melts into the sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: The juicy burst of sweetness balances the rich sauce and adds vibrant color.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brings freshness and a pop of green for an inviting presentation.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): A little spicy kick that adds excitement if you like a hint of heat.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Begin by cooking your chosen pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures the noodles provide the perfect bite that will soak up all the luscious sauce to come. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later just in case your sauce needs loosening.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, lightly season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest, which keeps it juicy when sliced later.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, taking care not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer gently for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy, velvety consistency.
Step 4: Combine and Add the Final Touches
Slice the rested chicken into thick strips and return them to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring gently to coat everything in that incredible garlic butter sauce. If it looks too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want to bring a little warmth to the dish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top not only adds a gorgeous splash of green color but also a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor that lightens the rich dish beautifully. A little extra grated Parmesan on top never hurts either for that finishing touch of cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This pasta stands powerfully on its own but pairing it with a crisp side salad or lightly roasted vegetables can elevate the meal even further. Think garlicky green beans, a tangy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or even some crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls for an elegant look, or pile it high on large platters if feeding a crowd. You can also add a swirl of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to complement the flavors and add a fancy flair worthy of dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more beautifully after resting, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, it’s best to keep the pasta separate from the sauce and chicken. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also reheat in the microwave but do so in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne are recommended, feel free to experiment with any pasta you love—the sauce clings to all shapes deliciously.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and ensure your chicken broth doesn’t contain gluten additives.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
You can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly richer flavor. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild by default, but the optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that you can control according to your preference.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead. Just store separately and combine with the freshly made sauce when ready to serve for best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe is truly the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy to any dining table. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining friends or family. Dive into this recipe soon—you’ll cherish how effortlessly it transforms chicken and pasta into something spectacular, warm, and wildly satisfying. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy dish combining tender chicken breasts with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, pasta, and fresh cherry tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner in about 45 minutes, blending Italian seasonings, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of spice for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Liquids and Cheese: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for 3-5 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes to soften slightly, blending their sweetness into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes on top if using. Serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
