Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for any occasion! It’s rich in flavor and incredibly simple to prepare, making it a favorite among families. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers delicious results. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a satisfying dinner that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal, making it great for family dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding veggies or swapping proteins to suit your taste.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything comes together in one pot!
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and combining ingredients without overcrowding.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that the spaghetti cooks evenly in salted water for optimal flavor.
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
- Fresh minced parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Season the Chicken
First, season your thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated with spices.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. When hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with garlic butter sauce. Toss well to coat. Return cooked chicken to the pan along with parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on top! Enjoy your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Pair with a Green Salad
- A fresh green salad adds crunch and nutrition. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for balance.
Add Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread is the perfect companion. It allows you to soak up extra sauce and enhances the garlic flavor in the pasta.
Serve with Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli or asparagus steamed lightly will provide color and nutrients, making for a well-rounded meal.
Top with Extra Parmesan
- Sprinkling additional freshly grated parmesan on top adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Garnish with Fresh Parsley
- A sprinkle of fresh minced parsley not only adds color but also brings freshness to every bite.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken make a big difference in flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente: This gives it the perfect texture and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Don’t skip the butter: The butter is essential for creating that rich garlic flavor; use enough for depth.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best results.
- Finish with pasta water: Adding a bit of pasta cooking water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, making it creamier.
- Let it rest briefly: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Serving side dishes alongside Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crunch and tang that pairs well with creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a smoky flavor that balances the dish nicely.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This salad adds protein and fiber while providing different textures and flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes for an inviting starter before diving into pasta.
- Minestrone Soup: A hearty soup filled with vegetables can be comforting alongside this flavorful pasta dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes like this one perfectly during summer meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more delicious dish. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland pasta. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking spaghetti for too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly after draining.
- Not using fresh garlic: Using pre-minced garlic can diminish the flavor. Fresh minced garlic adds a rich, vibrant taste that is essential for this dish.
- Neglecting the butter: Butter should be added at the right time to avoid burning. Add it toward the end of cooking for a creamy sauce without bitterness.
- Ignoring the garnish: Skipping fresh parsley or extra parmesan can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of parsley not only enhances presentation but adds freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2-3 months.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta:
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.
Is Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and stays delicious when stored properly.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
While butter adds richness, you can replace it with olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter option.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta or adding more veggies to increase fiber content while reducing calories.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor that your whole family will enjoy. This recipe is versatile enough that you can customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you stick with classic chicken or add your favorite veggies, this dish promises satisfaction every time!
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is your go-to weeknight meal, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. This comforting dish combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked spaghetti, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that will have the whole family asking for seconds. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare—perfect for busy evenings or casual dinner parties. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to enhance your dining experience, and enjoy a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil, salt, pepper, and seasonings
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Set aside.
- Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add cooked spaghetti and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Return chicken to the pan and mix in Parmesan cheese until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (320g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
