Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this meal is sure to impress. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this pasta dish combines tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and al dente spaghetti for a delightful experience. When you want something comforting yet delicious, this recipe stands out as a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Dish: The garlic butter sauce elevates the taste of chicken and pasta, making every bite irresistible.
- Versatile Meal: Pair it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner that suits various occasions.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it perfect for family meals, ensuring even picky eaters will enjoy it.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, as you can cook everything in one pot for convenience.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to perfection without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes prepping ingredients quick and safe.
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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Toss sliced chicken breasts in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add butter over low heat until melted.
- Stir in minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Return cooked chicken to skillet along with drained spaghetti.
- Toss everything together gently to coat pasta in the garlic butter sauce.
- Add grated parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot with extra parmesan on top if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Fresh Green Salad
- A crisp green salad adds freshness and crunch. Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread
- Serve warm garlic bread alongside this pasta for an extra burst of flavor. The buttery, garlicky taste complements the dish perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, provide a healthy and colorful addition to your plate.
Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Top each serving of pasta with freshly grated parmesan for an added layer of cheesy goodness. It melts beautifully into the warm pasta.
Minced Parsley Garnish
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Its bright notes perfectly balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Lemon Wedges
- Squeeze lemon juice over the pasta just before eating for a zesty kick. It brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing element to each bite.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Perfecting your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is simple with these helpful tips. Keep these in mind for a flawless dish every time.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives. Always opt for fresh when possible.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook your spaghetti just until al dente. This gives it a firm texture that holds up well with the sauce.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Every palate is different, so make it perfect for you.
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Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook chicken slices until they are golden brown but still juicy. Overcooked chicken can become tough and dry.
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Experiment with Proteins: While chicken shines in this recipe, feel free to substitute shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for variety.
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Make It Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it easy to prepare ahead of time. Just reheat gently before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta can enhance your dinner experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing complements the flavors of pasta beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious option that adds vibrant color to your meal without overpowering it.
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Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a delightful contrast to the richness of the pasta.
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Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; its earthy flavors work well alongside garlic butter chicken pasta.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that echoes the pasta’s flavors perfectly.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn brings a summery flavor that pairs nicely with this hearty dish—just slather on some butter!
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Herbed Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa side mixed with herbs provides a nutty taste that complements the creamy pasta while keeping things light.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a fun presentation and add nutrition without overshadowing your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
- Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-season when adding salt. Start with less and taste as you go to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Not cooking the chicken fully: Undercooked chicken can ruin your meal. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Overcooking the pasta: Soft, mushy pasta isn’t ideal for this dish. Cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic is key for flavor in this recipe. Don’t skip or skimp on it; fresh minced garlic enhances the taste.
- Ignoring the resting time: Letting the dish sit a bit after cooking helps the flavors meld. Don’t rush straight to serving!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over low heat, adding a little water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
You can pair this dish with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti works well, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
How can I customize Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes, or switch up the protein with shrimp or tofu for variety.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta spicy?
This recipe has mild heat from crushed pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is an irresistible dish that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes, making it perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. Give it a try and discover your family’s new favorite!
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, al dente spaghetti, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this meal can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families looking for quick yet flavorful options. The creamy garlic sauce infuses each bite with robust flavor, while the simplicity of the recipe ensures it’s easy enough for cooks of any skill level. Pair it with a fresh salad or warm garlic bread to complete this comforting meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and chicken bouillon.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained spaghetti to the skillet. Toss together with grated parmesan until creamy.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of total recipe)
- Calories: 543
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
