If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy garlic butter sauce, and cheesy goodness, the Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe is absolutely the answer. This delightful meal combines simple ingredients into a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug—rich Parmesan cheese, perfectly cooked chicken, and pasta coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce all come together in about 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic recipe to impress friends, treat your family, or just savor a cozy night in with a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor and texture. Fresh garlic adds that irresistible aroma, while Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, creamy element. The chicken provides protein and a hearty bite, and the spinach adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition. Here’s everything you need to whip up your own Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe:
- 2 large chicken breasts: Sliced into cutlets for even cooking and tender bites.
- 8 oz rotini pasta: Twisted shape that holds on to the sauce beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing chicken and adding richness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the silky, buttery base for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that makes everything come alive.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous warmth to the chicken.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Gives that cheesy, salty punch.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional): Adds color and a subtle earthy freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer.
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts into even cutlets so they cook quickly and evenly. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Removing the chicken at this point ensures it stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly
While your chicken rests, cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente—that lovely balance where the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water will be key to making a velvety sauce that clings to every spiral of rotini.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
Using the same skillet you seared the chicken in is a little secret—it brings along all those wonderful browned bits. Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for one to two minutes, just until it’s fragrant and golden but not burnt. Slowly whisk in the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This simple step transforms the garlic butter into a smooth, luscious sauce perfect for coating pasta.
Step 4: Combine and Finish the Dish
Add the cooked rotini back into the skillet and toss it well so every piece is luxuriously coated with garlic butter sauce. Slice the rested chicken and arrange it over the pasta. At this stage, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and, if using, the fresh spinach. Let everything warm together for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the spinach to gently wilt, infusing the dish with a fresh balance and melty indulgence.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds an irresistible finishing touch with a salty kick and visual appeal. Freshly chopped basil or parsley also works wonders here, contributing a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is always a fantastic choice for mopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce—you won’t want to waste a drop!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and arrange the chicken slices neatly on top. Drizzle an extra splash of olive oil or a light sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a hint of heat. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side can brighten up the flavors, offering a zesty contrast to the creamy and savory profile of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before sealing, try to keep the chicken and pasta separate if possible, as this helps maintain the best texture when reheated.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Freezing might soften the spinach slightly, so consider adding fresh spinach after reheating for a fresher taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave leftovers covered, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Be sure not to overheat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of rotini?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work well with this recipe. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best texture with the garlic butter sauce.
Is there a substitute for fresh Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have fresh Parmesan handy, pre-grated Parmesan works fine, though fresh is always best for flavor and melting quality. You could also experiment with Pecorino Romano for a sharper kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to give the dish a meaty texture and great flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It should be golden on the outside and juicy in the center.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and cook the pasta in advance. Keep them separate, refrigerate, and assemble right before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend trying the Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe enough—it’s such a satisfying and comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. So grab your skillet and get cooking, because this delightful pasta is waiting to wow your taste buds!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender seared chicken breasts, al dente rotini pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional spinach for a touch of greens, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t sacrifice on taste.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- Salt for pasta water
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into even cutlets. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for balanced flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken cutlets for 5–6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water for the sauce.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Create Sauce: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, whisking continuously to create a smooth, cohesive garlic butter sauce.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly in the garlic butter sauce.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Slice the seared chicken into strips and lay it over the coated pasta. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and, if using, add the fresh spinach.
- Warm and Melt: Continue to cook gently until the Parmesan melts and the spinach wilts, approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with extra Parmesan cheese and serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using fresh Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and melt quality.
- The reserved pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce making it creamy and smooth.
- The optional spinach adds a nutritious green element but can be omitted or substituted with kale or arugula.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked through by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of cream or milk when adding the pasta water.
