Hey there, friend! If you’re like me and sometimes find yourself in a whirlwind of a week, you’re going to love this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta recipe. It’s rich, savory, and absolutely bursting with flavor while being super simple to whip up! I truly believe that dinner can be both comforting and easy, and this is one of my go-to meals. Plus, who can resist a creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and that amazing garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen? Let’s dive into this deliciousness!
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this dish delightful to your taste buds, but it also packs a nutritional punch! Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help lower blood pressure. And with the bonus of whole grain pasta, you’re getting fiber that supports digestion. So, you can enjoy this meal knowing you’re fueling your body well!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Swap the Protein: Don’t have chicken? No worries! You can easily replace it with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Different Pasta Types: Rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta work wonderfully too! Choose what you have on hand or what fits your dietary needs.
- More Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color—it’ll make the dish even more vibrant!
Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
- 1 pound of chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chicken broth or the pasta cooking water
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to salt the water generously for extra flavor! Once cooked, reserve about 1/4 cup of the cooking water and then drain the rest.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant—oh, the aroma is heavenly!
- Now, pour in the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and bring it to a simmer, stirring to combine all those wonderful flavors.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with parsley before serving!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you want a bit more kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream along with the chicken broth.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Equipment Needed
Gather these handy tools before you get started:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A colander for draining
- A large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup for the chicken broth
- A knife and cutting board for slicing chicken and mincing garlic
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a non-dairy cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that cheesy flavor.
- How can I reheat leftovers? Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it might dry out the pasta.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? While this dish is best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and garlic sauce ahead of time and simply toss it together with cooked pasta when you’re ready to eat.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes! It’s a flavorful and fun dish. You can even let the kids help by adding cheese or garnishing the pasta!
- What can I serve with this pasta? A simple green salad or garlic bread makes for a great side to complement this dish.
Have you tried this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta? I’m super excited to hear how it turned out for you! If you loved it, make sure to share your photos on Pinterest and connect with me for more tasty recipes that’ll make your weeknight dinners a breeze! Happy cooking!
