The delightful aroma of garlic wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into a pot of creamy garlic butter chicken pasta. Picture tender pieces of chicken mingling with a luscious sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that dances on your taste buds. This culinary masterpiece isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to bring joy and satisfaction with every bite.
Imagine serving this dish at a family gathering or a cozy date night. As your loved ones dig in, their eyes light up in delight while they savor the flavors. It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile! Trust me; this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta will become your go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is incredibly easy to whip up even on busy weeknights
- Its rich flavors and velvety texture create a dish that looks gourmet but feels comforting
- The vibrant colors of the ingredients make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet night in with loved ones
I’ll never forget the first time I made this dish for my friends; they were practically licking their plates clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy; I usually use about 3-4 breasts depending on how many you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; there’s no such thing as too much garlic here.
- Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Opt for your favorite shape; I recommend fettuccine for its ability to hold onto the sauce.
- Butter: Use unsalted for better control over flavor; it adds richness that’s simply irresistible.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret to achieving that luxurious creaminess we all crave in our pasta dishes.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor; sprinkle generously for added depth.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish with its fresh taste.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth works best; it enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every layer of flavor in this delightful meal.
- Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness to balance out the richness of the cream and butter.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter so everything is within reach during cooking. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mince your garlic.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping up any tasty bits from the bottom.
Creamify It!: Lower heat and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring gently. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until thickened slightly—a beautiful creamy sauce is forming!
Pasta Time!: While your sauce simmers away, cook 8 ounces of your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but reserve about half a cup of pasta water.
Toss It All Together!: Combine cooked pasta with your creamy sauce mixture; if it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency. Mix well until every noodle is coated!
Serve immediately garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling extra indulgent!
With each step completed, you’re just moments away from enjoying this dreamy dish! Remember to take a moment to appreciate how simple ingredients transform into something magical. Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is a comforting delight that brings flavors together seamlessly
- With its rich aroma and silky texture, it’s bound to impress anyone at your dinner table
- Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then cook the pasta while preparing your luscious sauce. This method saves time and ensures everything comes together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy garlic butter chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with room temperature chicken for even cooking and better texture
- Adding freshly grated cheese enhances flavor and creaminess significantly
- Always taste as you go; seasoning adjustments make a big difference!
Cooking this dish reminds me of that one dinner party where I accidentally spilled half of the sauce on my best friend’s shirt. Thankfully, they loved the pasta so much they forgot all about it!
FAQ
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking for extra heat.
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds nutrition and a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta stores well and reheats beautifully.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken broth and simmer gently.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream; let simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, using reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Mix well.
- Serve garnished with parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
