Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a versatile recipe suitable for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion when you crave something comforting yet flavorful. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a meal that impresses without the stress.

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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
• For Garnish
• How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Everything
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
• Pair with a Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Include Vegetables
• 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 type of pasta works best for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
• Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
• How spicy is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
• Is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and spices creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! This dish is sure to please even picky eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that can adapt to various occasions.
• Easily Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling spaghetti evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Great for cooking chicken and creating the flavorful garlic butter sauce.

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

For Garnish

• Fresh minced parsley (optional)

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add seasoned chicken.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and add butter.
2. Once melted, add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
2. Add drained spaghetti to the skillet with garlic butter sauce; toss well to coat.
3. Mix in sliced chicken and Parmesan cheese; stir until combined.

Step 5: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
2. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience and make this recipe even more enjoyable for your family.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons, drizzled with Caesar dressing.
• Garden Salad – A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach Salad – Baby spinach leaves mixed with walnuts and feta cheese, dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up sauce.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft and warm rolls that complement the pasta nicely.
• Focaccia – Italian flatbread seasoned with herbs; serves as a great side.

Include Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Tender broccoli florets add color and nutrition to the meal.
• Roasted Asparagus – Seasoned asparagus spears roasted until crispy can enhance flavor profiles.
• Sautéed Zucchini – Lightly sautéed zucchini rounds provide a fresh, healthy side option.

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How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken elevate the dish’s flavors significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Ensure pasta is cooked just right to maintain its texture when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper as needed.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken – Cook chicken until just done to keep it tender and juicy in your pasta.
• Save Some Pasta Water – Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Garnish Generously – Top with freshly minced parsley or more parmesan for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with various sides that enhance its flavors. Here are some top choices:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft knots of dough brushed with garlic butter, ideal for enjoying alongside pasta.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil create a vibrant side dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables – A colorful mix of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection adds visual appeal and taste.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the pasta.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness; it’s especially good if made with a tangy dressing.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with cheese or breadcrumbs provide a delightful bite-sized treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many cooks forget to season the chicken properly. Always use salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can ruin your dish. Cook it al dente, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
• Not using fresh garlic: Using pre-minced garlic can lead to a less flavorful dish. Fresh minced garlic delivers a stronger taste and aroma.
• Using low-quality butter: The butter is key in this recipe. Opt for high-quality butter for a richer flavor.
• Neglecting garnish: Forgetting fresh parsley can make your dish look bland. A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan and heat over medium, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta.

What type of pasta works best for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?

Any long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine works well. They hold onto the sauce nicely.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu can be great alternatives while keeping the garlic butter sauce intact.

How spicy is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?

The recipe includes crushed pepper flakes for mild heat. You can adjust this according to your taste preference.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta healthy?

It offers a balance of protein and carbohydrates but can be modified by adding more vegetables or using whole grain pasta.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is not only quick and easy but also incredibly delicious. Its versatility allows for many customizations, whether you want extra veggies or a different protein. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!