Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti
Ingredients:
300g spaghetti
2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
3 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp red chili flakes
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken cubes until golden and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add red chili flakes and mix well.
5. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and chicken, coating them in the garlic butter sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti every time. First, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. While the pasta cooks, pat the chicken cubes very dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a golden sear. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes to get a good crust. Flip and cook until fully done, then transfer to a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Cook for just 45-60 seconds until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic turns bitter. Stir in the red chili flakes for 30 seconds to toast them and infuse the oil. By now, your pasta should be drained (reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water!). Add the drained spaghetti and cooked chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything vigorously to coat in the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a silky, emulsified sauce that clings to the noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served immediately in warm bowls. For a restaurant-style finish, garnish with not only chopped fresh parsley but also a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. A side of a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For extra color and nutrition, you can stir in a handful of fresh baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes during the final toss. A wedge of crusty garlic bread is the ultimate companion for soaking up any remaining sauce.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente and reserve water. Sear seasoned chicken cubes until golden. In the same pan, make a fragrant garlic butter sauce with chili flakes. Combine everything, using pasta water to adjust consistency. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and always reserve some starchy pasta water.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Simply omit the red chili flakes entirely or reduce the amount to 1/4 teaspoon for a subtle warmth without significant heat.
Can I use pre-cooked or leftover chicken? Yes. Add shredded or cubed cooked chicken to the garlic butter sauce just to warm through, being careful not to overcook it.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a small splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, as the pasta will have absorbed it.
Is there a way to add a creamy element? For a creamy version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk after toasting the chili flakes and let it simmer for 2 minutes before adding the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Sautéing garlic over too high heat makes it bitter. Cook it gently just until fragrant.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is essential for creating a cohesive, glossy sauce that isn’t dry or greasy.
- Crowding the Chicken: Adding all chicken cubes at once steams them. Cook in batches if needed for a proper sear.
- Using Dried Parsley: Fresh parsley is non-negotiable for its bright, clean flavor. Dried herbs won’t provide the same fresh finish.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Spaghetti is a testament to how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can create a spectacularly flavorful and comforting meal in under 30 minutes. Mastering the key techniques—searing the chicken properly, toasting the aromats, and emulsifying the sauce with pasta water—elevates it from a basic weeknight dinner to a dish worthy of any occasion. Its versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring it will become a reliable favorite in your culinary repertoire. Buon appetito!