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This garlic butter chicken pasta has saved countless weeknight dinners in my household, combining tender pieces of chicken with a decadent parmesan cream sauce all in one satisfying dish.
I first created this recipe when my in-laws surprised us with a visit, and I needed something impressive yet quick. The way they asked for seconds told me this dish would become a regular in our rotation.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs choose thighs for more flavor and moisture
- Butter creates the rich garlic infusion and golden exterior
- Fresh garlic forms the aromatic foundation of the dish
- Paprika adds gentle warmth and beautiful color
- Salt and pepper enhances all the flavors
- Chili flakes provides optional heat that cuts through the creaminess
- Fresh parsley brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
- For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta Pasta of choice penne holds sauce well but any shape works beautifully
- Olive oil prevents sticking and adds richness
- Heavy cream creates the luxurious sauce base
- Parmesan cheese use freshly grated for best melting quality
- Garlic powder infuses the sauce with aromatic depth
- Nutmeg this secret ingredient enhances cream sauces with subtle warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pasta Preparation
- Cook your pasta in heavily salted water until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. The pasta will continue cooking slightly when added to the hot sauce. Always reserve some starchy pasta water before draining as it helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Chicken Perfection
- Season the chicken pieces thoroughly with paprika, salt, pepper and chili flakes if using. Allow the butter to fully melt and begin to foam in the pan before adding chicken to ensure proper browning. Space the chicken pieces about an inch apart to prevent steaming instead of searing. Cook until golden brown on each side and register 165°F internally.
- Garlic Butter Magic
- Add fresh minced garlic only in the final minute of cooking to prevent burning. Toss continuously to coat every piece of chicken in the fragrant butter mixture. The garlic should become fragrant but not brown, which takes about 30-45 seconds. Move quickly to prevent overcooking the chicken.
- Sauce Development
- Begin your sauce in the same pan to capture all the browned bits from the chicken. Scrape the bottom well as these flavor particles dissolve into the cream. Allow the cream to come to a gentle simmer rather than a full boil to prevent curdling. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Final Assembly
- Return the pasta to the sauce and toss continuously using tongs to ensure even coating. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency. Return the chicken to the pan last to maintain its texture, gently folding it through the pasta.
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The Parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I once tried to substitute another cheese and while still good, it lacked that distinctive umami depth that only aged Parmesan can provide. My husband still reminds me of this culinary misstep whenever I reach for a different cheese in the refrigerator.
Storage Success
This dish maintains its delicious flavor for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce overnight, so when reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the creamy consistency. Warm it slowly in a covered skillet over medium-low heat rather than using the microwave, which can cause the sauce to separate. Stir frequently while reheating to ensure even warming.
Customization Options
Transform this recipe by swapping the protein or adding vegetables to make it your own. Substitute large peeled shrimp for a seafood version that cooks even faster than chicken. For a vegetable boost, add baby spinach in the final minutes of cooking or sauté mushrooms before making the sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes add wonderful tang and color, while asparagus pieces provide texture contrast. For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with chicken broth, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Serving Suggestions
Present this dish family-style in a large, shallow bowl that showcases the golden chicken pieces atop the creamy pasta. Accompany with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay makes an excellent pairing. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread for soaking up extra sauce or roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for nutritional balance.
Common Queries
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream in this dish?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce won't be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, try full-fat coconut milk, which works well with the garlic and spices in this dish.
- → What pasta shapes work best with this creamy sauce?
Fettuccine and penne are recommended, but any medium pasta shape that can hold the creamy sauce works well. Rigatoni, farfalle, and fusilli are excellent alternatives as they capture the sauce in their ridges and curves.
- → How can I add vegetables to make this a complete meal?
Add spinach, mushrooms, peas, or asparagus for extra nutrition. Sauté mushrooms with the chicken, add peas during the last minute of cooking the sauce, or wilt spinach just before serving. For a more substantial addition, roast broccoli or asparagus separately and mix in at the end.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce, stirring frequently. Avoid microwaving as it can make the sauce separate and the pasta become gummy. Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Can I prepare any components of this dish ahead of time?
You can cut and season the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator. The pasta can be cooked al dente, tossed with a little olive oil, and refrigerated a day ahead. The final sauce and assembly are best done just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken and pasta dish?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette works well for soaking up extra sauce. For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or a medley of seasonal vegetables.