If you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and packed with bold flavor, then this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, mingling beautifully with perfectly cooked pasta and a dreamy Parmesan cream sauce—all coming together in one irresistible dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends over dinner, this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta hits every note just right.

Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the juicy chicken seasoned just right to the creamy sauce that ties everything together with a velvety finish.

Chicken breasts (1 lb/450 g): Boneless and skinless for quick cooking, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy bites.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds a subtle fruity richness to sear the chicken perfectly.
Unsalted butter (4 tbsp total): Provides that irresistible buttery richness in both the chicken and sauce.
Garlic (5 cloves): Minced fresh garlic gives a vibrant punch of flavor that’s the heart of this dish.
Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a gentle smoky warmth and lovely color to the chicken.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Enhances the garlic flavor in the chicken seasoning.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every element perfectly.
Pasta (300 g/10 oz): Penne, fettuccine, or your favorite kind, cooked to al dente for the best texture.
Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups/360 ml): Creates the silky, rich base of the Parmesan sauce.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup/50 g): Imparts nutty, savory depth to the creamy sauce.
Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp): A fragrant herb blend adding subtle Italian flair.
Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Brings a fresh, vibrant finish and lovely color contrast.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta in well-salted water is key because it seasons the pasta from within, boosting the overall dish’s flavor. Follow the package instructions to cook your choice of pasta until al dente — firm to the bite but tender. Once cooked, drain and set aside while you prepare the flavorful chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry and toss them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pieces turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Adding butter and minced garlic at this stage infuses the chicken with deep garlicky richness as you toss the pieces in the sizzling butter. When ready, remove the chicken and set it aside to keep warm.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, bringing the mixture gently to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce thicken just slightly over 2-3 minutes. This creamy sauce is the soul of your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta, rich but balanced with garlic and herbs.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return your cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the luxurious Parmesan cream to ensure each strand or piece is evenly coated. Mixing in fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning at this stage makes all the flavors pop just right.

Step 5: Finish with Garlic Butter Chicken

Plate your creamy pasta with generous spoonfuls of the golden garlic butter chicken on top. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for that fresh, inviting look. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of all the Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta flavors at their best.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is the classic garnish that adds a touch of color and freshness. You could also grate an additional sprinkle of Parmesan on top or add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These simple touches elevate the dish into an impressive presentation that invites you to dig right in.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, like a tangy arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, to provide contrast. Roasted or sautéed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or garlic green beans also complement the creamy texture and balance the richness. For bread lovers, warm crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep it warm longer. Layer the pasta with chicken in a deep dish and top with fresh herbs, adding edible flowers for an elegant touch. You can even turn it into a pasta bake by transferring everything into a baking dish, topping with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then broiling until golden and crispy on top—pure comfort food elevated.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even better after a day, but the creamy texture is best enjoyed fresh whenever possible. Be sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to maintain quality.

Freezing

While freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes alter texture, you can freeze this recipe for up to two months if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to keep the sauce silky.

Reheating

Reheat Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the cream sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating helps restore the smooth, creamy consistency. Stir frequently until heated through, and serve immediately with a fresh sprinkle of parsley.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine work wonderfully because they hold the sauce well, any pasta you love or have on hand—like spaghetti, rigatoni, or farfalle—will be delicious in this dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can make a dairy-free version by substituting butter with a plant-based margarine or oil and using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to add that cheesy flavor. The texture will differ slightly but still be tasty.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Incorporate vegetables by sautéing mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers with the chicken or stirring them in with the sauce before combining with pasta. This boosts nutrition while adding wonderful texture and freshness.

Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta scales up beautifully. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and cook in larger batches. Keep the sauce warm on low heat and toss pasta just before serving for best results.

What wine pairs well with Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta?

A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and garlic flavors perfectly. For red wine lovers, a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir also pairs nicely without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day—comforting, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a firm favorite for so many home cooks. Give yourself the treat of this quick and indulgent meal soon; I promise it will become a staple in your recipe collection and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any table.