Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Garlic butter chicken with creamy Parmesan pasta is the dish I cook on nights when I crave something rich but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen It brings together juicy chicken bites a velvetlike sauce and a handful of pantry staples for a meal that tastes like comfort with every bite

This recipe has been my go to for busy nights My family always goes back for seconds the leftovers never last long and we have made so many happy memories sharing this around our table

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: sliced into bite sized pieces look for chicken that is firm and pink avoiding any with excess moisture
• Olive oil: helps to sear the chicken and keep it juicy extra virgin for best flavor
• Unsalted butter: this goes in both the chicken and pasta sauces go for a fresh block with no off smell
• Fresh garlic cloves: minced never skip fresh peeled garlic for maximum aroma
• Salt and black pepper: bring out every flavor use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best lift
• Italian seasoning: offers herbal notes and complexity dried oregano basil and thyme work perfectly
• Fettuccine or any pasta shape you love: choose pasta with a nice bite semolina flour pasta holds up best
• Heavy cream: gives the sauce its lush texture always shake the carton and use within a week of opening
• Grated Parmesan cheese: always grate a block at home for richer, nutty flavor
• Chicken broth: adds depth to the sauce use low sodium to control seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish: adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness try to use flat leaf for tenderness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil a large pot of salted water Add pasta and cook until just al dente so the noodles have a little bite Drain well and set aside

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add the chicken in an even layer Sprinkle with salt pepper and Italian herbs Let it brown on one side then stir and cook for six to eight minutes until fully cooked and golden Remove from pan and keep warm

Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce:

Keep the skillet on medium and add the unsalted butter When melted add minced garlic Stir the garlic gently for thirty seconds which releases its natural oils and aroma Take care not to burn

Combine Chicken with Sauce:

Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet Toss well so all chicken pieces are glossed in garlic butter scraping up any brown bits from the pan

Make Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

In another saucepan melt butter over medium Add more minced garlic Stir until just fragrant then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth Let it bubble gently to thicken and meld flavors

Add Cheese:

Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan You want the cheese to melt slowly and make the sauce silky Taste and add salt and black pepper until it tastes just right

Combine Pasta with Sauce:

Tip your drained pasta into the creamy sauce Stir gently with tongs to make sure every strand is coated in the velvety mixture

Serve It Up:

Use tongs to twirl pasta onto plates Spoon the garlic butter chicken bites right over the top with extra sauce if you like

Garnish:

Scatter with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish If you want even more indulgence drizzle over any remaining garlic butter from the pan

Save

I have a big soft spot for freshly grated Parmesan cheese It makes the sauce thick and so flavorful I remember once teaching my little one how to grate it by hand and the pride in their smile when they tasted the finished pasta

Storage Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in a tightly sealed container for up to three days For best reheating add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent dryness Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of heavy cream try half and half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce Swap in boneless chicken thighs for extra tenderness or go meatless with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini Gluten free pasta works well if you have dietary needs just do not overcook it

Serving Suggestions

This recipe shines on its own but add a lemony green salad or roasted vegetables for contrast Garlic bread is a must for soaking up any extra sauce Do not forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan at the table

Save

A Little History

Garlic butter and Parmesan sauces have their roots in Italian and Italian American kitchens bringing together familiar flavors in new ways By blending the richness of cream with the punch of garlic this dish feels both classic and cozy I always think of big family suppers whenever I serve it

Common Recipe Questions

→ What pasta shapes work best with garlic butter chicken?

Fettuccine is a popular choice for creamy sauces, but penne, linguine, or spaghetti also work well to hold the flavors.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Cook until browned and fully cooked before adding to the sauce.

→ How do I keep the Parmesan sauce smooth?

Whisk cheese in gradually over low heat to prevent clumping, and add a splash of pasta water if the sauce gets too thick.

→ What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms complement the creamy chicken and pasta beautifully.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

It stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy and chicken tender.