Description
This Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that makes you want to go back for seconds—and maybe even thirds. Loaded with smoky-seasoned chicken strips, creamy garlic butter sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a quick dinner recipe that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas, easy pasta recipes, or a cozy comfort meal, this dish hits every mark. The rich sauce clings perfectly to the noodles, and the juicy chicken packs a bold, smoky punch in every bite. It’s a perfect food idea for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz fettuccine or linguine
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from skillet.
- Lower heat to medium. Melt remaining butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and let simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Add pasta water gradually if the sauce is too thick.
- Return chicken to the pan and mix well. Heat through.
- Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, and cracked pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner