Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken bites with creamy, cheesy pasta. This meal is a perfect balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying dinner option. The golden-browned chicken is infused with garlic butter, while the pasta is coated in a luscious parmesan sauce, creating an irresistible taste. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
History of the Dish
Garlic butter chicken is a variation of classic French and Italian cuisine, which often uses butter, garlic, and herbs for flavor enhancement. Parmesan pasta, on the other hand, originates from Italian culinary traditions, where simple ingredients like cheese, butter, and pasta come together to form comfort food classics. Combining these elements creates a modern dish that is both easy to prepare and packed with depth in flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Parmesan Pasta:
• 250g linguine or fettuccine
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring well until the garlic is fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
5. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss with chopped parsley. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Making the Parmesan Pasta Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in heavy cream and mix well. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Combining Everything
1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
2. Place the garlic butter chicken on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Methods of Cooking
• Sautéing: The chicken is sautéed in olive oil for a crispy, golden exterior.
• Simmering: The sauce is gently simmered to thicken it and enhance the flavors.
• Boiling: The pasta is boiled until al dente to ensure a firm yet tender texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: ~45g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fats: ~30g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~2g
Health Benefits
1. High in Protein: Chicken provides essential proteins that aid muscle growth and repair.
2. Good Fats: Butter and olive oil contribute to healthy fats, which are necessary for brain function.
3. Rich in Calcium: Parmesan cheese strengthens bones and teeth.
4. Garlic Benefits: Boosts immunity, lowers cholesterol, and improves heart health.
5. Balanced Meal: The combination of protein, carbs, and fats makes this a well-rounded meal.
Food Lovers and Best Pairings
This dish is a favorite among Italian food lovers and those who enjoy creamy, garlicky flavors. It pairs wonderfully with:
• A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• A fresh Caesar salad
• Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Pasta is a dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Its combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and succulent’s , well-seasoned chicken makes it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy this delicious meal and impress your loved ones with its rich, bold flavors!