Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy Weeknight Dinner

Picture this: the irresistible aroma of sizzling garlic and melted butter swirling through your kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of perfectly pan-seared chicken. It’s the kind of smell that makes your stomach rumble, and honestly, you can’t help but linger by the stove, sneaking a little taste (just for quality control, of course). Each time I whip up this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta, my home comes alive with laughter and clinking forks—everyone’s just waiting for that first, steamy bite.

The first time I stumbled upon this recipe, I was knee-high to a grasshopper, watching my grandma transform simple pantry staples into pure comfort. She’d always say, “Butter and garlic make everything better,” and boy, was she right! Years later, on a rainy weekend when I was craving something cozy and simple, I decided to recreate her magic with a modern twist—adding luscious cream and tender chicken to her beloved pasta. The result? The kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Let’s face it, life gets busy and sometimes you just need a dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day. My family couldn’t stop sneaking forkfuls off the skillet, and I can’t really blame them! It’s now a staple for family gatherings and those nights when you want a little extra comfort without fuss. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta recipe years ago—it’s dangerously easy and always delivers pure, nostalgic satisfaction. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your Pinterest dinner board, impress your friends, or simply spoil yourself, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

After testing it (more times than I’ll admit, all in the name of research!), I can say with confidence: this is the weeknight dinner you’ll crave over and over. Get ready to fall in love with every creamy, garlicky bite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

You know what makes this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta stand out? Years of kitchen trial and error, a whole lot of family taste tests, and a little professional know-how. Trust me, I’ve cooked enough pasta to know a winner when I see one.

• Quick & Easy: From stovetop to table in under 35 minutes—perfect for those last-minute weeknight cravings or when you just need something fast and satisfying.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips. Odds are, you’ve got everything you need right in your pantry and fridge. (Garlic, butter, pasta—what else do you need?)
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This pasta shines at potlucks, cozy dinners, or when you just want to spoil your loved ones. It’s a hit at brunches, holiday gatherings, and makes a hearty meal for Sunday lunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids adore the creamy sauce, adults love the savory chicken, and everyone goes back for seconds. Rave reviews every time.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The pasta is coated in a silky, garlic-infused butter sauce, while the chicken stays juicy and succulent. One bite, and you’ll understand why this is next-level comfort food.

What sets this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta apart from the crowd? For starters, the chicken gets pan-seared for that irresistible golden crust and then simmers gently in the sauce to soak up all those flavors. I use a dash of parmesan for depth and a splash of cream for extra silkiness—no shortcuts here, just simple techniques that really pay off.

It’s not just good—it’s the kind that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. I’ve tweaked the seasoning profile for perfect balance (never too garlicky, never bland), and added a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness. This meal is comfort food reimagined: it’s hearty, rich, and fast without sacrificing the soul-soothing satisfaction you crave. Plus, it’s great for impressing guests without any stress—just toss everything together and watch the magic happen.

So, whether you’re feeding picky eaters, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta recipe is your golden ticket to a memorable, fuss-free dinner.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy garlic butter chicken pasta leans on simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and a dreamy, satisfying texture. The best part? Most of these goodies are pantry staples, and you can easily swap things out if needed.

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450g), sliced thinly
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil mix)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing—can sub avocado oil)
• For the Pasta:
  • 12 ounces (340g) dried pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work great)
  • Salt, for boiling water
• For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness, don’t skimp!)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (don’t be shy—garlic is the star here)
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a lighter sauce)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated parmesan cheese (I recommend Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth (low sodium—adds depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle heat)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, rounds out the flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For Finishing & Garnish:
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or basil, for a little color and freshness)
  • Extra grated parmesan cheese, for serving

If you’re gluten-free, swap the pasta for your favorite GF brand (Barilla or Jovial are trusty options). For a dairy-free twist, use coconut cream and vegan butter—just keep an eye on the sauce, as it thickens up a bit differently. In summer, I love tossing in a handful of fresh baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and nutrition. And if you’re short on parmesan, try pecorino or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy kick.

The only must? Good garlic. The fresher, the better—trust me, it’s worth it. The rest is up to you, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta recipe. That’s half the fun!

Equipment Needed

Nothing fancy required—just your basic kitchen gear and a little love. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Large skillet or sauté pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) helps you get that perfect sear on the chicken. If you only have nonstick, it works too—just watch the heat.
• Pasta pot: Big enough for boiling pasta comfortably. Honestly, any large pot will do.
• Colander or strainer: For draining your pasta. I’ve used a slotted spoon in a pinch!
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board: For slicing chicken and mincing garlic. Keep those knives sharp—makes prep way easier.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Great for stirring the sauce and scraping those tasty brown bits from the pan.
• Microplane or cheese grater: For finely grating parmesan. (If you don’t have one, just use pre-grated cheese—it’ll work.)

If you’re low on specialty gear, don’t sweat it. I’ve made this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta with thrift-store pans and hand-me-down utensils plenty of times! Just make sure you have something sturdy for searing and a pot big enough for the pasta. Bonus tip: If you treat your skillet well (wipe it clean after each use, avoid harsh scrubbing), it’ll last you for years.

Preparation Method

Ready to bring this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta to life? Here’s my step-by-step method—complete with time-saving tips and sensory cues for perfect results.

1. Prep the Chicken:
   Slice 2 large chicken breasts (about 450g) into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Let it rest while you prep other ingredients. This helps the flavors soak in and keeps the chicken juicy.
   
   Prep time: 5 minutes
2. Boil the Pasta:
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces (340g) dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup (120ml) pasta water, then drain the rest.
   
   Troubleshooting tip: If the pasta starts sticking, give it a gentle stir every couple minutes.
   
   Cook time: 10-12 minutes
3. Pan-Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through—don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
   
   Warning: The chicken should sizzle as soon as it hits the pan. If it doesn’t, your pan isn’t hot enough.
   
   Cook time: 6-8 minutes total
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   Reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter to the same skillet (don’t clean it—those brown bits add flavor!). Once melted, stir in 6 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
   
   Tip: Garlic should smell sweet and mellow, not burnt. If it browns too quickly, lower the heat.
5. Build the Creamy Sauce:
   Pour in 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream and 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using), and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
   
   Note: If the sauce looks thin, just simmer a little longer. If it’s too thick, splash in reserved pasta water.
6. Combine Everything:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in sauce. Add drained pasta and toss until everything’s well combined and the pasta is glossy and coated.
   
   Sensory cue: The pasta should look silky and creamy, with flecks of herbs and golden chicken throughout.
7. Season and Garnish:
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or basil) over top, plus extra parmesan for good measure.
   
   Efficiency tip: Get everyone to the table while it’s piping hot—it’s best enjoyed right away!

If you’re making this for a crowd, keep the pasta and sauce separate until serving, then toss everything together for maximum freshness. And if your sauce breaks (gets oily or grainy), just add a splash of pasta water and whisk vigorously. Happens to the best of us!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Years of pasta nights have taught me a trick or two for creamy garlic butter chicken pasta perfection. Here’s what I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way):

• Pan-Searing Chicken: Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning—moisture is the enemy of a good crust. Don’t move it around too much; let it sit and sizzle for a golden finish.
• Sauce Consistency: If your sauce looks thin, simmer it a bit longer. Too thick? Add a splash of reserved pasta water. The starch in the pasta water helps the sauce cling to every noodle.
• Garlic Control: Burnt garlic ruins everything, you know? Keep the heat gentle and watch closely—garlic should be fragrant, not browned.
• Timing: Start boiling the pasta first, then prep the chicken and sauce while it cooks. Multitasking means dinner’s on the table in record time.
• Consistency: Grate your parmesan freshly if you can; pre-shredded cheese sometimes makes the sauce grainy. Stir the sauce constantly to prevent sticking or clumping.
• Personal Fails: I once overcrowded the pan and steamed my chicken instead of searing. Lesson learned: patience pays off! Go for batches if your pan is small.

Don’t forget: taste as you go! Little adjustments make a world of difference. And if you’re worried about overcooking the chicken, just pull it off the heat as soon as it’s firm and opaque—carryover cooking will finish the job. With these tips, you’ll get creamy garlic butter chicken pasta just right, every single time.

Variations & Adaptations

One of my favorite things about creamy garlic butter chicken pasta is how easy it is to tweak. You can make it work for pretty much any diet or craving. Here are some tried-and-true variations:

• Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free pasta—rice pasta and chickpea pasta both work great. Just keep an eye on the boiling time, as GF noodles cook a bit faster.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and vegan butter for a rich, creamy sauce. Try nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted veggies. The sauce is just as dreamy, promise!
• Seasonal Add-Ins: In summer, add roasted cherry tomatoes and zucchini. For fall, toss in some baby kale or butternut squash.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Cooking Methods: Air fryer chicken works if you want less oil, or grill the chicken for a smoky twist.
• Allergen Substitutions: Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy cream, and avocado oil instead of olive oil if you’re sensitive.

My favorite personal adaptation? Adding a handful of baby spinach at the end—it wilts perfectly in the hot pasta and adds a pop of color and nutrition. Don’t be afraid to experiment; this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta recipe is pretty forgiving, so make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For best flavor, serve creamy garlic butter chicken pasta hot and fresh, right out of the pan. The sauce is at its silkiest and the chicken stays juicy.

• Serving Temperature: Piping hot is best, but it holds up well at room temp for potlucks or buffet-style meals.
• Presentation: Plate with a sprinkle of extra parmesan, a dash of chopped parsley, and maybe a wedge of lemon for brightness.
• Pairings: Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. A glass of chilled white wine makes everything better (at least for the grown-ups!).
• Storage: Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight—just watch out for thickening sauce.
• Freezer-Friendly: Portion into meal-sized containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring between each, or warm gently on the stovetop.

If you notice the sauce thickening in the fridge, just add a little liquid when reheating. Leftovers make a killer lunch—sometimes even better than the night before!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approx. 630 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 32g (mostly from butter and cream)
• Carbs: 49g
• Fiber: 3g

Key health benefits? The chicken adds lean protein, while garlic offers immune-boosting compounds and antioxidants. Pasta provides energy, and fresh herbs give a vitamin kick. You can make it lower-carb by using zucchini noodles or a chickpea pasta. For gluten-free diets, use a certified GF pasta. Allergens to watch: dairy (cream, butter, cheese) and wheat (pasta)—see substitutions above.

Personally, I love this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta for its balance: plenty of protein, satisfying fats, and a dose of comfort that just makes wellness feel easy and delicious!

Conclusion

If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and downright delicious, you can’t go wrong with creamy garlic butter chicken pasta. It’s the recipe I reach for when I want a guaranteed crowd-pleaser or just a quick weeknight win. The flavors are bold, the textures are dreamy, and the whole dish feels like pure comfort with every forkful.

Don’t be shy—customize it with your favorite add-ins, swap the pasta, or tweak the sauce until it’s just right for you. That’s what makes homemade food so special. I keep coming back to this recipe because it’s simple, reliable, and always brings folks together (even the picky eaters!).

So, bookmark this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta recipe, give it a try, and let me know how you make it your own! Drop a comment below, share your photos, or tag me if you put your own spin on it—nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen creations. Here’s to many more delicious dinners and happy memories!

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Can I make creamy garlic butter chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything, cool, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, and spaghetti are my top picks, but rotini, rigatoni, or even shells work great. Just choose pasta that holds sauce well!

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Slice chicken thinly, don’t overcook, and let it rest before adding to pasta. Pan-searing seals in juices, so avoid crowding the pan.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Dice or shred leftover roasted or grilled chicken, then toss it in during the final step to warm through in the sauce.

How do I make this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta gluten-free?

Just swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free version. Everything else stays the same—easy peasy!

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