Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a simple and comforting meal made with juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a rich buttery garlic sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly but still feels like a restaurant-style dinner. The combination of golden chicken, garlic, butter, and Parmesan makes this dish creamy without being heavy and very family-friendly.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy
- Add pasta water slowly to control sauce thickness
- Grate Parmesan fresh for smooth melting
Variations
- Add broccoli or spinach
- Use shrimp instead of chicken
- Add red pepper flakes for heat
- Swap cream for half-and-half for lighter sauce
Tips
- Slice chicken evenly so it cooks at the same time
- Taste sauce before serving and adjust salt
- Let pasta rest 2 minutes before serving
- Use unsalted butter to control salt level
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread
- Pair with a green salad
- Add roasted vegetables on the side
- Sprinkle lemon zest for freshness
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
FAQs
Can I use another pasta type?
Yes, penne or rotini work well.
Can I make it without cream?
Yes, use more broth and extra Parmesan.
Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, store in the fridge up to 3 days.
How do I reheat it?
Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.
Can I freeze it?
Cream sauces are best fresh, freezing is not recommended.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is an easy and creamy dinner that tastes rich without being complicated. It’s perfect for weeknights, family meals, or when you want comfort food fast.