If you have a craving for something truly comforting yet elegant, the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. This dish brings together tender, golden chicken cooked to perfection, coated in a luscious parmesan cream sauce that clings to every strand of perfectly cooked pasta. Each bite offers a symphony of buttery garlic richness, sharp Parmesan tang, and just the right hint of Italian herbs. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything you need for this Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe is straightforward but incredibly flavorful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding creaminess, aroma, or that irresistible savory edge that makes this dish shine.
- Chicken Breast or Thighs (boneless, skinless, bite-sized): Tender and quick-cooking, perfect for absorbing all those beautiful flavors.
- Garlic (freshly minced): The aromatic backbone that makes the sauce irresistible.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create the perfect sauté base for the chicken and sauce.
- Olive Oil: Balances the butter with a fruity note and prevents burning during cooking.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to that insanely smooth, velvety sauce that coats every bite.
- Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce creating depth and savory goodness.
- Pasta (Linguine or Fettuccine): Flat pasta shapes that cling beautifully to the creamy sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Italian Seasoning: A classic herb blend that infuses the chicken with fragrant notes.
- Parsley (optional): For a fresh, green finish that brightens the dish at the end.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple combo elevates the natural flavor of the chicken. Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the chicken and cook it thoroughly until it turns golden brown on all sides, locking in juiciness and creating a gorgeous crust. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside so you can build the sauce with the wonderful pan flavors left behind.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in freshly minced garlic and sauté until it releases its intoxicating aroma, about 30 seconds to a minute. Be careful not to burn it! Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently, stirring often. Next, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese little by little, stirring continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, silky sauce. This is where the magic happens—where richness and sharpness combine to create the signature creamy texture we all crave.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the sauce gently simmers, cook your linguine or fettuccine in a large pot of boiling salted water until it reaches al dente perfection—firm but tender to the bite. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is a brilliant tool to loosen your sauce and help it beautifully coat every strand of pasta without becoming too thick or clumpy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Chicken
Return to your skillet with the creamy sauce and toss in the drained pasta. Stir vigorously, incorporating some of the reserved pasta water as needed to reach a luscious sauce consistency that clings perfectly. Then, gently fold in the sautéed chicken pieces, allowing the warmth to meld everything together. This step ensures each forkful bursts with flavor and creamy goodness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley and an extra handful of Parmesan cheese over the top for color and a flavor punch. Serve the dish piping hot for maximum enjoyment of the creamy sauce and succulent chicken. This final touch not only adds freshness but also makes your Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe look as stunning as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a beautiful pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. Additional Parmesan grated right before serving adds that final savory kick that takes this dish over the top. A few red pepper flakes can also be sprinkled on if you like just a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads like arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad to complement the creamy pasta without overpowering it. Garlic bread or crusty French bread is perfect for sopping up any luscious sauce left on the plate. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, offer a nice contrast in texture and add some green goodness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner party, serve this creamy parmesan pasta in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few delicate shavings of Parmesan on top. You can also elevate the presentation by adding edible flowers or finely chopped chives for a chic touch. Another fun idea is to serve it family-style in a large, beautiful serving dish so everyone can dig in and share the love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the saucy texture, keep the chicken and pasta together but be sure to stir before reheating.
Freezing
While heavy cream-based sauces generally don’t freeze as well due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately. Store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding fresh cream or a splash of milk if the sauce looks separated.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water while warming helps to revive that smooth, creamy consistency. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it might cause uneven heating and a grainy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine or fettuccine are recommended for their ability to hold the sauce well, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it until al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative and use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for guests?
You can cook the chicken and pasta in advance and prepare the sauce just before serving. Combine everything last minute to keep the pasta from becoming soggy and the sauce fresh and creamy.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens too much, simply stir in reserved pasta water or a splash of milk or cream to loosen it until it’s the consistency you desire.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers make excellent additions. Add them when you make the sauce to allow them to cook gently and blend with the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about the Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe that quickly makes it a go-to for busy nights or special occasions. The flavors are rich without being overwhelming, the texture perfectly balanced, and the whole experience feels like a warm hug on a plate. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you will not regret having a dish this comforting and crowd-pleasing in your culinary repertoire.
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Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken is a rich and comforting dish combining tender, seasoned chicken sautéed to golden perfection with a luscious parmesan cream sauce, tossed through al dente linguine or fettuccine. The savory garlic butter chicken and creamy sauce create a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb Chicken Breast or Thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Sauce
- 4 cloves Garlic, freshly minced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
Pasta
- 12 oz Pasta (Linguine or Fettuccine)
- Salt, for pasta water
Garnish
- 2 tbsp Parsley, chopped (optional)
- Additional Parmesan Cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce and Chicken: Add the drained pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to combine all ingredients well.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result.
- Adjust garlic amount to taste if preferred less pungent.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
