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This rich garlic butter chicken pasta combines tender chicken bites with a silky Parmesan cream sauce. The golden chicken and al dente pasta come together in a luxurious sauce that tastes indulgent but comes together quickly for an elevated weeknight dinner.
After testing countless variations, I've found that letting the garlic slowly infuse the butter creates the best flavor foundation. The subtle sweetness of caramelized garlic transforms this from a basic pasta dish into something truly crave-worthy.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: Cut into even 1-inch pieces for optimal browning
- Fresh Garlic: Mince finely - pre-minced won't give the same depth
- Heavy Cream: Creates a silky sauce that clings to the pasta
- Parmesan: Use freshly grated for the smoothest sauce
- Pasta: Short shapes like penne capture more sauce
- Fresh Herbs: Brighten the rich sauce
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Detailed Instructions
- 1. Prepare Components
- Slice chicken into uniform pieces
- Bring salted pasta water to boil
- Mince garlic and grate cheese fresh
- Have all ingredients ready before starting - 2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat pan until very hot
- Work in batches to avoid overcrowding
- Get good golden color for flavor
- Remove and set aside - 3. Build the Sauce
- Lower heat to medium
- Let garlic gently cook in butter
- Gradually whisk in cream
- Add cheese in small handfuls - 4. Final Assembly
- Return chicken to pan
- Add al dente pasta
- Toss until well coated
- Adjust seasoning to taste
Coming from a family of Italian cooks, I learned that slightly undercooking the pasta allows it to finish perfectly in the sauce, absorbing all those wonderful flavors.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For wine, try a light Chardonnay.
Storage Tips
Store sauce and pasta separately. Reheat gently with a splash of cream to restore texture.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
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After years of making this dish, I've discovered that the key to its success lies in timing. Getting each component ready at just the right moment ensures the creamiest sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What pasta works best?
- Penne or rotini work best as they hold the sauce well, but any pasta shape works.
- → Can I use chicken thighs?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great and stay more tender.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
- Keep heat low when adding cream and cheese, and stir constantly.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Best served fresh, but stores up to 3 days. Reheat with extra cream.
- → What can I add to this?
- Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.