Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet

Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine; 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting

I can’t tell you how much I adore this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet. With just the right balance of garlic, butter, and tender chicken, it's a comforting one-pan meal I can whip up on busy weeknights. The sauce is exquisite, and it clings perfectly to every strand of pasta. I love how quickly the entire dish comes together, making it a go-to in my kitchen. It's packed with flavors that remind me of hearty family dinners, and it’s sure to impress anyone sitting at the table!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:21:36.373Z

When I first made this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The chickens were skillet-seared, yielding that beautiful golden crust, while the garlic aroma filled the air. This method ensured the chicken stayed juicy while being infused with flavors that only garlic and butter can provide.

A tip I learned is to cook the pasta just al dente. This not only helps it absorb the garlic butter sauce but also prevents it from becoming mushy. Trust me, the texture is everything in this dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Indulgent garlic butter flavor with every bite
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Loaded with protein and perfect for a satisfying meal

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish, providing a rich and savory base that makes each bite a delight. When sautéing the garlic, you'll want to be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce. You'll know it's ready when it's fragrant and lightly golden—about 1 to 2 minutes on medium heat should do the trick. If you find your sauce too thick, adding an extra splash of chicken broth can help achieve the desired consistency.

The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth is crucial in creating that luscious texture. The cream adds a silky richness, while the chicken broth adds depth of flavor. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like half-and-half or even a non-dairy coconut cream for a different flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as lighter creams may reduce and thicken differently.

Cooking the Chicken Perfectly

For the best results, ensure your chicken is cubed evenly—about 1-inch pieces are ideal for even cooking. This allows for a quick sear that locks in moisture. Cooking the chicken at medium heat for 5 to 6 minutes will give it a beautiful golden color while keeping it juicy inside. If the chicken begins to stick to the skillet, add a bit of extra butter to ensure it sears properly and does not dry out. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; it should register at least 165°F.

If you want to add some more flavor to the chicken, consider marinating it in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Alternatively, leftover rotisserie chicken can be used—just add it to the skillet after the garlic butter sauce is prepared, letting it heat through before mixing with the pasta.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet can make for excellent leftovers, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or water to prevent the pasta from sticking. Stir frequently until heated through. If you find the dish has become too thick, adding liquid will help restore its creamy texture.

For a vibrant presentation, you can pair the dish with a side salad or garlic bread. To lighten the meal, serve it over zucchini noodles or a bed of fresh spinach. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet during the sauce-making step for extra nutrition and color. Just remember to adjust your seasoning to complement the additional ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for another 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Garnish and Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce. It adds a nice kick!

Flavor Enhancements

If you're a fan of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will elevate your garlic butter sauce with a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream. Fresh herbs can also be added toward the end of cooking to brighten the flavors; basil or thyme are excellent choices that marry wonderfully with garlic.

For those who enjoy a little tang, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can enhance the overall flavor profile right before serving. This acidity cuts through the richness, making the meal feel lighter while also adding an aromatic note.

Serving Size and Scaling

This recipe is designed to serve about four people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. If you want to scale it up, doubling the recipe is simple. Just ensure you have a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume, as you'll want to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, this dish can easily be halved. Consider adjusting the ingredient ratios accordingly, but don’t compromise on the butter or garlic; they are key to achieving that rich, comforting flavor. Leftovers, as mentioned, are also a delicious option for lunch the next day!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nutty flavor and is a healthier option.

→ How can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms work great and add more nutrients.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It reheats well and can be portioned out for easy meals throughout the week.