Description
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
A luxurious, flavorful pasta dish perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
300g spaghetti or fettuccine
400g chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
(chopped)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a creamy sauce.
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Add the chicken back into the skillet and mix well.
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the creamy pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is comfort food at its best—simple, delicious, and absolutely satisfying!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow this detailed guide. Start by gathering all ingredients (mise en place). Use a large, deep skillet or pan. Boil pasta water first, heavily salting it. While pasta cooks, prepare chicken. Ensure skillet is hot before adding oil to prevent sticking. Cook chicken in a single layer for even browning. When making the sauce, keep the heat at medium-low after adding cream to prevent scorching. Slowly sprinkle in Parmesan while stirring constantly for a smooth emulsion. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. When combining, if the sauce is too thick, add pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For vegetables, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus are excellent choices. To elevate the meal, serve with crusty garlic bread for dipping into the leftover sauce. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light Chardonnay complements the garlic and butter flavors perfectly. For a family-style presentation, serve directly from the skillet at the table.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and drain pasta, reserving some water. Season and pan-sear chicken until golden, then set aside. In the same pan, make a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, then simmering with cream and Parmesan. Toss the pasta and chicken in the sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully and offer more flavor. Adjust cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer.
How can I make this dish less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. You can also use a lighter pasta like linguine.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta? Absolutely. Sauté spinach at the end, or add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas with the garlic for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese? Pecorino Romano offers a sharper taste, while a high-quality Asiago can provide a similar meltable, salty quality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant (30-60 seconds). Burnt garlic turns bitter and will ruin the sauce.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: These products contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, leading to a grainy sauce. Always grate fresh.
- Not Seasoning the Pasta Water: The water should taste like the sea. This is your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Crowding the Chicken: Adding too much chicken at once steams it instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary for a golden crust.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: Remove the skillet from direct heat or turn it very low before stirring in the Parmesan to avoid a clumpy, separated sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly decadent meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home. Its versatility allows for easy customization with your favorite veggies or proteins. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors you’ve created.