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Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for Busy Nights

A quick and flavorful garlic butter chicken pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta, any shape
  • 1 lb chicken breast, trimmed and patted dry
  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
  • 1/2 cup pasta water, reserved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the 12 oz pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp of the butter to the skillet.
  3. Season the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden, about 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate to rest and slice.
  4. Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add remaining 3 tbsp butter, garlic, and chili flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.
  5. Pour in reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer.
  6. Add drained pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat.
  7. Stir in Parmesan and parsley, mixing until cheese melts.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry for better browning. Reserve pasta water for a silky sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter, chicken pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meals, one-pan meal