Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breasts; 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; 16 ounces spaghetti; 5 Tablespoons butter; 8 cloves garlic, peeled and minced; ½ teaspoon crushed pepper flakes; ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan, plus more for serving; Fresh minced parsley for garnish (optional)

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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken breast with rich, buttery garlic sauce and spaghetti for a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a satisfying meal that comes together quickly and pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Not only does it provide a delicious flavor, but you can also pair it easily with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You may also find Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Pasta useful.

Why cook this at home

This dish stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. It’s budget-friendly and offer family-friendly portions without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ingredients are easy to source, and it can be prepared in about 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.

Preparing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Start by seasoning the chicken.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Sauté the chicken until cooked through.
Prepare the garlic butter sauce in the same pan.
Toss everything together with the spaghetti.
Garnish and serve hot.

Key ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:
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, 16 ounces spaghetti, 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).
Feel free to swap the chicken with beef if that’s your preference.

Cooking method

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, about 5-7 minutes.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, approximately 1-2 minutes.
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the drained spaghetti. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to coat the pasta.
Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with more salt, if necessary.

What to serve it with

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving the Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad. A sprinkle of extra parmesan on top before serving adds a nice touch. Pairing it with a refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea enhances the dining experience.

How to store and freeze

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, reheat on the stove over medium heat, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F before consuming. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to prevent it from drying out.

Tips for best results

Ensure the chicken is cut evenly to promote even cooking.
Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
Toasting the garlic in the butter until golden can enhance the dish.
If you prefer a little heat, increase the amount of crushed pepper flakes.
Don’t skip the reserved pasta water; it helps bind the sauce to the spaghetti beautifully.

Creative twists

Feel free to customize this recipe with added vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. For a different flavor profile, try using different herbs such as basil or oregano. You can even switch the pasta style to bowtie pasta for a fun twist, similar to the version found in other recipes like Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare garlic butter chicken pasta?

The recipe typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for dinner.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but ensure it is thawed completely before cooking to achieve even doneness.

What can I substitute for butter?

For a lighter option, you could use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.

Is there a gluten-free version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can swap traditional spaghetti for gluten-free pasta varieties.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of heavy cream can create a richer sauce if desired.

Trying out this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta will surely yield a rich and comforting meal. It’s easy to make, and with a few adjustments, you can put a personal spin on it! Don’t hesitate to share your version or variations after you try this recipe.

Buttery Garlic Chicken Pasta