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Meta Description: Looking for the perfect comfort meal? This garlic butter chicken & Parmesan pasta is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that comes together effortlessly. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy dinner with family, or a meal-prep favorite, this garlic butter chicken & Parmesan pasta ticks all the right boxes.
Picture this: tender, juicy chicken bites cooked in garlic butter, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, and smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Every forkful is a blend of savory, cheesy, and buttery goodness—making this dish an instant hit.
Why This Recipe Works
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✅ Rich & Flavorful – A buttery garlic sauce with creamy Parmesan cheese.
✅ One-Pan Option – Cook it all in one skillet for easy cleanup.
✅ Family-Friendly – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
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If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent pasta recipe, this one delivers big on taste without the fuss.
What Makes This Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta So Irresistible?
The Perfect Combination of Creamy, Buttery, and Cheesy Flavors
This dish is all about balance—the garlic-infused butter, the juicy chicken, and the silky, Parmesan-loaded sauce work together to create a rich, comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
Here’s what makes every bite unforgettable:
🥄 Garlic Butter – Enhances the chicken and sauce with deep, savory notes.
🍗 Juicy Chicken – Tender, perfectly seasoned, and lightly seared.
🧀 Parmesan Cream Sauce – Smooth, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
🍝 Al Dente Pasta – Soaks up the sauce without getting mushy.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
✔ Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Uses pantry staples but tastes restaurant-quality.
✔ Customizable – Works with different pasta shapes, proteins, or add-ins.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Tastes just as good the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
Before you begin, gather these essential ingredients:
For the Chicken
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1 lb (450g) | Lean protein, juicy and flavorful |
Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Helps with searing and enhances flavor |
Unsalted Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness and enhances the garlic flavor |
Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Essential for bold, aromatic taste |
Paprika | 1 tsp | Adds depth and mild heat |
Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Enhances the overall seasoning |
Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Balances and intensifies flavors |
For the Pasta & Sauce
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Pasta (Penne, Fettuccine, or Your Choice) | 10 oz (300g) | Holds the sauce and adds texture |
Unsalted Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness to the sauce |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Infuses the sauce with flavor |
Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups (360ml) | Creates a creamy, silky texture |
Parmesan Cheese (grated) | ½ cup (50g) | Gives a nutty, cheesy depth |
Italian Seasoning | ½ tsp | Adds herbaceous notes |
Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Enhances overall taste |
Fresh Parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp | Brightens the dish |
Optional Additions & Substitutions
- Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Make It Lighter: Swap half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Switch Up Proteins: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Best Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta to the Perfect Texture
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to avoid clumps.
4. Combine Everything for the Ultimate Pasta Dish
- Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Plate the pasta while warm.
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
Looking for the perfect side dish? Here are some ideas:
🍞 Garlic Bread – Ideal for scooping up extra sauce.
🥗 Fresh Salad – A light contrast to the creamy pasta.
🥦 Steamed Veggies – Adds nutrients and texture.
🍷 White Wine – Pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store & Keep Your Pasta Creamy
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce can separate.
Best Way to Reheat
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
❌ Overcooking the Chicken – Keep it juicy by searing, not steaming.
❌ Using Too Much Cream – Can make the dish too heavy.
❌ Not Stirring the Sauce Enough – Prevents clumps and separation.
❌ Skipping the Seasoning – Always taste and adjust flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything and store separately, then reheat before serving.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to keep the sauce smooth.
3. Can I make this low-carb?
Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
4. What’s the best cheese for extra creaminess?
A mix of Parmesan and mozzarella works beautifully.
5. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just shred and mix it in with the sauce.
Final Thoughts on the Best Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta
This garlic butter chicken & Parmesan pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Try it out and let me know—what’s your favorite pasta dish? 🍽️👇
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Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta – A Family Favorite!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and buttery flavors. Featuring tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and Parmesan-coated pasta, it’s a quick, satisfying, and family-friendly meal—ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Pasta & Sauce
- 10 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from pan.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything
- Add pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing until well-coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Plate warm and serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired