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 linguine; Salt, for boiling water; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Homemade Bliss

When I first made this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet, I was overwhelmed by how many delightful flavors came together in one dish. The garlicky aroma wafted through my kitchen and made everyone eager for dinner. Each bite was a delicious blend of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights when we need a comforting meal that's also quick to prepare. I can't wait to share this with you!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:57:37.932Z

Making this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet was a delightful experience for me. I remember carefully sautéing the garlic until it was aromatic, which hints that magic is about to happen. I always use high-quality butter to amplify the flavors, and it truly makes all the difference in this dish.

One detail that I found crucial is to let the pasta soak up that rich sauce before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the pasta incredibly satisfying. Don't be afraid to adjust the garlic to your liking; it’s truly the star of this dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Garlicky, buttery goodness in every bite
One-pan meal means less cleanup
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy nights

Flavor Balance

The combination of garlic and butter in this dish creates a rich and aromatic sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. The garlic should be sautéed precisely until fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. This nuanced balance is what makes the sauce so irresistible and is key to achieving that comforting, home-cooked feel. You can use fresh garlic, but if you're in a pinch, garlic powder can be a useful substitute—just remember to use it sparingly, around 1/8 teaspoon per clove.

Additionally, the chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, providing moisture as well as a savory note that complements the butter. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can substitute homemade chicken stock, or use low-sodium broth to control the sodium content. For a lighter version, you might even consider using vegetable broth, which still allows the garlic and Parmesan to shine without overwhelming the dish.

Technique Tips

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, I recommend slightly undercooking it by about a minute before draining. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce and chicken, leading to a desirable al dente texture. Additionally, saving that cup of pasta water is genius—it acts as a magical binding agent. As you incorporate it into the skillet, it helps to emulsify the sauce, yielding a glossy finish instead of a dry, clumpy mixture.

When sautéing the chicken, make sure to give each piece some space in the skillet for proper browning; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing. Keep the heat at medium to medium-high, allowing the chicken to develop golden edges, which adds a lovely flavor profile to the dish. If you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, adjust the heat accordingly to avoid burning.

Customizing Your Dish

This recipe can be easily tailored to your taste preferences. For example, adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli not only boosts nutritional value but also adds vibrant color and texture. If you choose to include veggies, sauté them in the skillet after the chicken has cooked, letting them soften before adding the garlic and broth mixture. This adds a delightful freshness to the dish without complicating the preparation process.

For those looking to lighten things up, consider substituting zoodles (zucchini noodles) for traditional pasta. Simply spiralize fresh zucchinis and sauté briefly before adding the sauce. This swap creates a low-carb version of this comforting meal while keeping all the flavors intact. Just remember to be cautious with the cooking time, as zucchini cooks much faster than regular pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz spaghetti or linguine
Salt, for boiling water

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, and sauté in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little. Stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes.

Storage Recommendations

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the sauce's silkiness. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring the pasta doesn't stick. Avoid microwaving this dish as it can lead to uneven heating and a rubbery texture.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. It’s best to store the chicken and pasta separately, as pasta can become mushy when frozen. The dish will keep well for up to two months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat using the stovetop method for best results.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet, consider garnishing it with extra freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Serving it alongside a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread offers delightful contrasts in flavor and texture. Pairing this dish with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the sauce while refreshing your palate.

For a more indulgent meal, you can serve this pasta dish in a Parmesan cheese bowl. To make your cheese bowl, simply melt Parmesan in a skillet until it's golden and crispy, then shape it over an inverted bowl to cool. This not only adds a fun presentation but also enhances the cheesy flavor of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp can be a great alternative. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink, and follow the same steps for combining.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute if you prefer a lighter option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat and toss with the freshly cooked pasta before serving.

→ Is the dish freezer-friendly?

Ideally, consume it fresh, but you can freeze it without the pasta. It keeps well for about 2 months before using.