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garlic butter chicken pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Description

Nothing beats a comforting plate of garlic butter chicken pasta—a dish that’s both rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, this recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients. Plus, the buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta, making it a must-try for pasta lovers!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

Optional substitutions:

  • Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
  4. Add grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, then mix until smooth.
  5. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet.
  2. Toss everything together until well coated in the garlic butter sauce.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy garlic butter chicken pasta!

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid garlic powder in the sauce.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
  • Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for more nutrition.

Find it online: https://recipesbysophia.com/garlic-butter-chicken-pasta/