Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender chicken and spaghetti. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a recipe that wins hearts at the dinner table. With its quick prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a family favorite in just 20 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, butter, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting pasta dish, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever pasta you have on hand or substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables for a different twist.
- Minimal Cleanup: With only one pot needed for cooking the pasta and chicken, cleanup is a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These kitchen essentials will help you create this dish smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is crucial for boiling spaghetti to perfection without overcrowding.
- Skillet: A good skillet helps achieve that beautiful sear on the chicken while infusing it with garlic butter flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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
– 16 ounces spaghetti
– 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: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta when done but reserve about one cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes per side). Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant (about one minute).
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with drained spaghetti. Toss everything together in the garlic butter sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen up the dish.
Step 6: Serve
Plate your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta hot! Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese, additional black pepper if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It pairs well with different sides and garnishes, making it the perfect option for a family dinner or casual gathering.
With a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing will complement the richness of the pasta.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta adds a light contrast to the hearty pasta.
- Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this peppery green salad balances the flavors of garlic butter perfectly.
With Garlic Bread
- Traditional Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices spread with garlic butter are an easy and delicious addition.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add mozzarella or parmesan to your garlic bread for extra indulgence and flavor.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Seasonal Roasted Veggies: Roast carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers tossed in olive oil for a colorful and healthy side.
- Garlic Parmesan Broccoli: Broccoli drizzled with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
To enhance your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta experience, consider these simple tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti just until al dente to maintain a firm texture that holds up against the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different; feel free to add salt or crushed pepper flakes according to personal preference.
- Add Extra Greens: Incorporate spinach or kale into the pasta during cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Pair your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal experience.
- Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a fresh taste that complements the pasta.
- Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this Italian classic provides a vibrant contrast to creamy pasta.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil on skewers make an easy finger food that guests will love.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and a bit of tangy flavor that balances the richness of the pasta dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide comfort alongside your flavorful pasta.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter makes for a sweet side that kids adore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, a few common mistakes can affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using too much salt: Adding too much salt can make the dish overly salty. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning gradually.
- Not cooking the pasta al dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Follow package instructions for timing and test for that perfect bite.
- Skimping on garlic: Garlic is what gives this dish its signature flavor. Use fresh minced garlic rather than powder for a more robust taste.
- Neglecting to let the chicken rest: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Not garnishing: Skipping the parsley garnish can make your dish less visually appealing. Fresh herbs add color and enhance flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the pasta cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing.
Reheating Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use penne or fettuccine based on your preference.
How do I customize Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition. You might also try different herbs like basil or oregano.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes for great leftovers, perfect for lunch throughout the week.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Pair it with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This comforting dish promises satisfaction and is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and see how easy it is to whip up!
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, a perfect weeknight meal that combines the richness of garlic and butter with tender chicken and spaghetti. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy families or casual gatherings. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 16 ounces spaghetti
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook seasoned chicken until golden brown (6–7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter; add minced garlic and crushed pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet along with drained spaghetti. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
