Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta – A Family Favorite!

Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich garlic butter sauce and creamy Parmesan-coated pasta. It’s perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner and is sure to become a staple thanks to its easy preparation and irresistible flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)olive oilbuttergarlic cloves (minced)Italian seasoningpaprikaonion powdersalt and black pepperparmesan cheesepasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)chicken brothheavy creamfresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring well to combine and letting it simmer for a few minutes.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the pasta, tossing everything together to coat well in the sauce.

Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to let the flavors meld. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.

Use rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.

Try swapping heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Swap Parmesan with Asiago or Romano for a different cheesy flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.Avoid microwaving too long to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta like penne, rotini, or spaghetti works well.

Is this dish very garlicky?

It has a rich garlic flavor, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat slowly with added cream or broth.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, cream alternatives, and omit the Parmesan.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp or turkey make great substitutes.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely, just warm it up in the sauce before serving.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge and reheats nicely for lunch or dinner.

Can I make it in one pot?

Yes, cook the chicken and sauce in one pot, and add cooked pasta at the end.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use low heat and stir continuously when adding the cream and cheese.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, sauté mushrooms with the garlic for extra umami flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken & Parmesan Pasta is a rich and creamy dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s a weeknight winner that offers restaurant-quality taste right at home. Make it once, and it’ll quickly earn a regular spot on your dinner menu.

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