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Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for Delicious Weeknight Dinners

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a quick, creamy delight perfect for weeknight dinners with family and friends.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound chicken breast cut into small pieces
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons butter divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup pasta water reserved
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons parsley freshly chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and keep warm.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the reserved pasta water, scrape the skillet to incorporate flavors, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Toss the cooked pasta and chicken together in the skillet, ensuring everything is well-coated in the garlic butter sauce.
  6. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve immediately garnished with parsley and optionally a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

For best results, combine the sauce with the pasta just before serving to prevent mushiness. Store leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.