If you are craving a dish that’s bursting with rich, comforting flavors while still being quick to whip up, this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need on your table tonight. Imagine tender seared chicken mingling with luscious garlic butter sauce, creamy parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta creating a harmonious plate that feels both indulgent and homey. This recipe is a joyful celebration of simple ingredients coming together to make something absolutely irresistible, guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in building the creamy, garlicky, savory goodness of the dish. From the juicy chicken to the sharp parmesan, every component contributes flavor, texture, or color that makes this meal truly special.
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs: Choose whichever you prefer for tender, juicy protein with a golden sear.
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine: The perfect pasta to hold the luscious sauce and carry flavors beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and helps build that irresistible garlic butter sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a great sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings the dish to life with its aromatic, punchy presence.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, creamy base for the parmesan sauce.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth, melting into the sauce for that iconic flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Provides a fresh, bright finish and pretty pop of green.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper. This simple step sets the foundation for flavorful meat with every bite.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Until Golden
Heat the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the hot pan and cook each side for 6 to 8 minutes until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through. This searing process locks in juices, ensuring your chicken stays tender. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly to top your pasta.
Step 3: Cook Pasta to Al Dente Perfection
While your chicken is resting, boil a pot of salted water and cook your fettuccine or linguine until al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, giving the perfect contrast to the creamy sauce. Remember to save about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, as it will help adjust the consistency of your sauce later.
Step 4: Create the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant and golden but not burnt. Then, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently to thicken. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until smoothly combined and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water to loosen it up perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Then Add Chicken
Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with your luscious cream sauce, ensuring every strand is coated with that garlicky, cheesy goodness. Serve topped with the sliced chicken, a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, and a bit more parmesan for an extra cheesy finish that truly elevates this comforting dish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up the rich flavors of the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Adding a little twist of cracked black pepper or an extra handful of parmesan right before serving takes this meal from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil or some buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also add a satisfying crunch and freshness that complements the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with the sliced chicken arranged in a fan shape on top. Drizzle a little extra garlic butter over the plate and finish with a dusting of parmesan and chopped herbs for that restaurant-quality wow factor at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
While the pasta and sauce don’t freeze perfectly due to the cream, you can freeze cooked chicken separately if you want to prep ahead. Just freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months, then thaw completely before reheating and combining with freshly made sauce and pasta.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if it seems dry. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture as the pasta can become tough and the sauce might separate.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in the Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe because they tend to stay juicy and flavorful. Just adjust cooking times slightly if using bone-in thighs.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine and linguine are ideal since their flat shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with penne or even spaghetti if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with dairy-free margarine and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, plus a vegan parmesan alternative. The flavor will be different but still deliciously rich.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Also, the juices should run clear when pierced. The golden crust is a great sign it’s cooked through and ready to rest.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce adds depth and color, turning this dish into a well-rounded meal.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels fancy enough for guests but is so straightforward you can easily make it any weeknight. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comfort-filled in the best way possible. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved family favorite, perfect for those cozy dinners that everyone looks forward to.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender seared chicken breast with a rich garlic butter sauce, parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a delicious twist on classic chicken parmesan served over pasta, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine or linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts or thighs according to your preference; thighs tend to be juicier while breasts are leaner.
- Reserve some pasta water as it helps loosen the sauce for better coating on the noodles.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Ensure the garlic is cooked just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
