Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Tender, juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with rich, creamy Parmesan spaghetti make this an irresistible comfort food dinner. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or special family meals.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken

• 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Glaze

1. Reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice.
5. Toss the chicken until every piece is coated in the glossy garlic butter sauce.
6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and keep warm.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In another skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt to taste.
6. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce.
2. Toss gently until every strand is coated.
3. Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta beside the garlic butter chicken bites.
4. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Total Time

35 minutes

Servings

4

Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Chicken thighs can be substituted for extra juicy meat.
• Add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for more vegetables.
• Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.