If you’re craving a comforting yet impressive dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection with a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce that coats every strand of your favorite pasta. Bursting with garlic flavor and balanced by fresh cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s not only mouthwatering but wonderfully simple to make. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe hits the perfect note of cozy and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component has a clear role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding creaminess, or giving that satisfying texture that turns a simple pasta into a memorable meal.
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice: Pick your favorite shape—spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine all work beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the chicken and adding a subtle richness at the start.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs or 680g): The star protein, juicy and flavorful when seasoned well.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing natural flavors at every stage.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the deep garlic notes without overpowering the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings herbs like oregano and basil into play.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: The foundation of that luscious, silky sauce you’ll fall in love with.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its unmistakable punch and aroma.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth, balancing the richness of the cream.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety texture that makes every bite dreamy.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that ties the whole dish together.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brightens the dish with a pop of color and juicy sweetness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and beautiful green contrast.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): Just a pinch can add a delightful spicy kick if you like a little heat.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry and seasoning them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This simple seasoning step ensures every bite bursts with flavor before the chicken even hits the pan.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain it, reserving a cup of the pasta water—you’ll need it to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Then, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you make the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and golden, just about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and letting it simmer gently to thicken.
Step 5: Add Cheese, Tomatoes, and Chicken
Stir in the grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and silky. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes if using. Slice the chicken breasts and nestle the pieces back into the sauce, allowing everything to warm through and infuse with flavor.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every strand in the luscious garlic butter sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled over the top not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also brings a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the sauce perfectly. A little extra Parmesan on the side never hurts for cheese lovers!
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus to add texture and a pleasant contrast. Garlic bread also makes a fantastic side, soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, serve the pasta twirled into neat nests on warm plates with chicken slices fanned on top and a drizzle of the sauce. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or even a wedge of lemon to add brightness and freshness to every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good chilled or slightly warmed, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While creamy pasta dishes can sometimes change texture when frozen, this recipe freezes well if you separate the pasta from the sauce before freezing. Freeze sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat gently, mixing in freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the chicken juicy and the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe is versatile with pasta shapes—penne, farfalle, or even macaroni will work beautifully, just cook according to package instructions.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, along with a dairy-free cheese substitute. The flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions that complement the garlic butter sauce and add extra nutrition and color.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and when juices run clear. It should be firm but still juicy and tender.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Adding red pepper flakes, either while cooking the sauce or sprinkled on top when serving, gives a nice kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy garlic butter flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe a try because it’s one of those feel-good meals that never disappoints. Simple ingredients come together to create something spectacularly comforting and flavorful. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy something hearty without fussing in the kitchen. Once you taste that creamy garlic butter sauce and tender chicken, you’ll be adding this dish to your dinner rotation, trust me!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, tossed with pasta, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. This creamy and comforting dish comes together in about 45 minutes, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
Chicken
- 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
- 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 boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- 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 thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes to soften while keeping their shape.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips and add them back into the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes over the pasta for a fresh and slightly spicy finish. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the heavy cream amount for a thicker or thinner sauce according to preference.
- Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking when mixed with the sauce.
