Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try Tonight

Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is a dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and the comforting essence of pasta, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how pasta has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often serving as a canvas for a variety of flavors and ingredients. This particular dish combines tender chicken with a smoky garlic butter sauce, making it a favorite among family and friends.

People love Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta not only for its delightful taste but also for its creamy texture that envelops each bite. The convenience of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (15 g) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will help flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you choose. 3. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help to create a creamy sauce later. 4. **Drain and Set Aside**: Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that will help the sauce adhere.

Cooking the Chicken

5. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sear the chicken but not smoking. 6. **Season the Chicken**: While the oil is heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. The smoked paprika will give the chicken a lovely smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully. 7. **Cook the Chicken**: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be no longer pink in the center. 8. **Add Garlic**: Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Be careful, as garlic can burn quickly!

Creating the Sauce

9. **Deglaze the Pan**: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce. 10. **Add Cream and Butter**: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butter has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. 11. **Incorporate Cheese**: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 12. **Combine Pasta and Sauce**: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired creaminess.

Final Touches and Serving

13. **Taste and Adjust**: Give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. 14. **Garnish**: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 15. **Serve**: Serve the Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. I love to pair this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. 16. **Enjoy**: Sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Storage Tips

17. **Store

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and a hint of smokiness creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this delightful pasta with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta a try and make it your own. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you might have in the comments below or on social media. Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together! Happy cooking!

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