Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a rich yet balanced dinner made with tender chicken, a smooth butter pasta sauce, and comforting pasta that works perfectly for family meals, casual gatherings, and easy weeknight dinners.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a go-to option when you need a comforting yet simple dinner that feels complete without being complicated. This dish combines juicy chicken tender pasta with a creamy garlic butter pasta sauce that coats every bite evenly. Whether you are searching for light chicken pasta recipes or classic buttery chicken pasta dishes, this recipe fits seamlessly into your weekly rotation. Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is especially popular because it uses everyday pantry staples and comes together quickly while still delivering full flavor and satisfying texture.
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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Description
Creamy garlic butter chicken pasta made with tender chicken, buttery sauce, and elbow pasta for an easy dinner.
Ingredients
12 oz elbow pasta
1 lb chicken tenders
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup grated parmesan
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook pasta until tender and drain.
2. Cook chicken in butter and olive oil until golden and set aside.
3. Saute garlic in butter until fragrant.
4. Add cream, broth, seasoning, and cheese to form sauce.
5. Combine chicken and pasta with sauce and serve.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for smoother sauce.
Add pasta water if sauce thickens too much.
Ingredients
The ingredients used in Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta are simple, affordable, and easy to find in most kitchens.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow pasta | 12 oz | Base of the recipe |
| Chicken tenders | 1 lb | Protein |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tbsp | Butter pasta sauce |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Cooking chicken |
| Garlic cloves | 5 cloves, minced | Garlic butter flavor |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creamy texture |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup | Sauce balance |
| Parmesan cheese | ¾ cup, grated | Rich finish |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Seasoning |
| Salt | ¾ tsp | Flavor |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Mild heat |
| Fresh parsley | Optional | Garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow pasta until tender, then drain and set aside. Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken tenders, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked, then remove from the skillet. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and minced garlic, cooking gently until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring slowly to create a smooth base. Add Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the pasta, and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning as needed and finish with parsley before serving.
Helpful Tips
Cut chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking, avoid high heat when cooking garlic to prevent bitterness, and reserve a small amount of pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread. It also works as a standalone dinner thanks to its balanced protein and pasta combination.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta stands out among chicken recipes with pasta because it balances richness with simplicity. This dish is easy enough for weeknights yet comforting enough to serve for guests. With its creamy garlic butter sauce and tender chicken, it remains a reliable dinner option that delivers consistent results every time.
FAQ
What pasta works best for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?
Elbow pasta works well, but penne, rotini, or fettuccine also hold the butter pasta sauce nicely.
Can this recipe be made lighter?
Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce butter slightly for a lighter chicken pasta recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms blend well into this creamy garlic butter pasta.