Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that can impress family and friends alike. It combines tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked spaghetti to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Ideal for busy evenings or special occasions, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity, ensuring a crowd-pleasing meal every time.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Pasta
• For the Sauce
• How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Fresh Green Salad
• Garlic Bread
• Roasted Vegetables
• Grated Parmesan
• Lemon Wedges
• Wine Pairing
• How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta healthier?
• Can I customize the flavors?
• How do I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with delicious flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins as desired.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan creates an irresistible sauce.
• Comfort Food Classic: A warm bowl of pasta makes for a cozy meal any time of year.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the chicken and combining everything into a delicious sauce.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have to ensure your spaghetti cooks evenly and retains its perfect texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breasts (about 2 medium breasts cut horizontally in half)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon thyme
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta

• 16 ounces spaghetti

For the Sauce

• 5 Tablespoons butter
• 8 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• ½ teaspoon crushed pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan, plus more for serving
• Salt as needed
• Fresh minced parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the thinly sliced chicken with salt, black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter.
2. Once melted, add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together.
4. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve

1. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, along with additional parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta paired with a green salad for a complete meal!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this flavorful meal.

Fresh Green Salad

• A light and crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the pasta.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a delicious way to soak up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

• Colorful roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots add nutrition and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

Grated Parmesan

• Offering extra freshly grated parmesan on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing presentation.

Lemon Wedges

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, adding a refreshing contrast to the garlic butter richness.

Wine Pairing

• A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors and creates a lovely dining atmosphere.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

To make sure your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t overcook pasta: Cook spaghetti until al dente for the best texture; it should still have a slight bite.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go! Feel free to tweak salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Reserve pasta water: Save some pasta cooking water before draining; it can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Add protein variations: If you want to mix things up, consider using shrimp or sautéed mushrooms instead of chicken.
• Garnish generously: Finishing with fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds freshness to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing is always a hit.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a wholesome contrast to the pasta.

3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing flavor profile.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Tender roasted asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and salt complement the dish beautifully.

5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting addition that everyone will love.

6. Bruschetta
   Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil make for an excellent appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken can lead to bland pasta. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta for the best texture.
• Not using enough garlic: This dish is all about the garlic flavor! Don’t skimp on fresh minced garlic; it’s key for that delicious taste.
• Using low-quality butter: Cheap butter can affect the richness of your dish. Opt for high-quality unsalted butter for a better flavor.
• Ignoring the resting time: Letting your chicken rest after cooking allows juices to redistribute. Skipping this step can result in dry chicken.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.

What is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cooked in garlic butter sauce, served over spaghetti.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta you prefer.

How do I make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli to boost nutrition.

Can I customize the flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like basil or rosemary, or spice it up with extra crushed pepper flakes according to your taste.

How do I store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices. This family-friendly meal is perfect any night of the week—give it a try and enjoy!