Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Indulge in a dish that harmonizes the succulent flavors of garlic butter chicken with the luxurious creaminess of Parmesan pasta. This quick and hearty meal is ideal for weeknights and will captivate food lovers with its simplicity and deep flavors.

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Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few things are as universally cherished as a creamy pasta dish paired with tender, flavorful chicken. This Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta combines the best of Italian-American cuisine, merging rich, aromatic garlic butter with a smooth Parmesan sauce that envelops every bite of al dente pasta. In under 30 minutes, you can create a dish that feels restaurant-quality yet perfectly suited for a home-cooked meal. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful recipe step-by-step.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces. Choose fresh chicken for optimal tenderness.
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons. Provides a light base for searing.
• Butter (unsalted): 4 tablespoons. Key to achieving that rich, garlic-infused flavor.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. The star of the dish, lending an irresistible aroma.
• Salt and pepper: to taste. Seasoning essential for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon. A blend that infuses the dish with earthy, herbal notes.
• Parsley (fresh, chopped): for garnish. Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the final dish.

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine or any preferred pasta: 12 oz. Select a long pasta for the best pairing with the sauce.
• Butter (unsalted): 2 tablespoons. For a rich base in the sauce.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Continues the garlic theme and deepens the flavor.
• Heavy cream: 1 cup. Creates the creamy texture that pairs beautifully with Parmesan.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): 1 cup. For its nutty, savory flavor that enriches the sauce.
• Chicken broth: 1/2 cup. Adds depth and balances the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper: to taste. Seasoning ensures a well-rounded flavor profile.

Optional:

• Extra garlic butter: for drizzling. Elevates the dish with an additional layer of buttery goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just tender, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later use, and set it aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping as needed until golden brown and fully cooked. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• Lower the heat to medium and melt 4 tablespoons of butter in the same pan used for the chicken.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
• Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter mixture. Let the flavors meld for another minute before setting aside.

4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

• In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a soft simmer.
• Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the sauce is smooth and thickened. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

• Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Assemble the Dish:

• Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and drizzle with extra garlic butter if desired.

Vivid Descriptions of Flavors and Textures

Picture tender, golden-brown chicken bites infused with the deep, savory notes of garlic and butter. Each piece is succulent, perfectly seasoned, and pairs wonderfully with the creamy, velvety pasta. The sauce is rich with the nutty taste of Parmesan, complemented by the smooth, indulgent cream. The garlic permeates each component, offering a tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen. The garnish of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness, balancing the dish’s richness.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Chicken Substitutions: Swap chicken breasts with boneless thighs for a juicier texture.
• Dairy Alternatives: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce, though the richness may be slightly reduced.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with pan-fried tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Pasta Variations: While fettuccine works perfectly, other pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or even penne can be used.
• Additional Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or stir in some baby spinach for a pop of green and extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the pasta. A chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the creamy and garlicky profile beautifully.