Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Delight
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a creamy, rich pasta. Enter Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta—a delectable blend of tender chicken, velvety pasta, and a garlic-infused buttery sauce that's sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Pasta:
8 ounces fettuccine or your favorite pasta
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Combine and Finish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy garlic butter chicken pasta.
Tips and Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
Add Veggies: Incorporate spinach, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the ultimate blend of indulgence and simplicity. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy every mouthful of this comforting classic!
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