May be an image of pasta

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is the kind of comforting dinner that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Tender pieces of golden chicken are tossed with pasta and coated in a silky sauce made from butter, garlic, cream, Parmesan, and a touch of pasta water. The result is rich, savory, garlicky, and incredibly satisfying.

What makes this recipe especially delicious is the balance between the browned chicken and the creamy sauce. The chicken develops flavorful golden edges in the pan, while the garlic-infused butter forms the foundation of the sauce. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish, and reserved pasta water helps everything come together into a smooth sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Pasta

12 ounces pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine
Salt, for the pasta water

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

3 tablespoons butter
5–6 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan, for serving

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are very thick, slice them horizontally into thinner pieces so they cook evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently press the seasoning into the chicken so it adheres well.

Allow the seasoned chicken to sit for a few minutes while you prepare the pasta water.