Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
There are some dishes that instantly make your kitchen smell amazing and your dinner table feel warm and welcoming. Garlic butter chicken pasta is one of those recipes. It combines tender chicken breast chunks, perfectly cooked pasta, and a bold garlic butter sauce that’s both rich and comforting without being heavy.
This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful. Using gluten-free pasta and dairy-free butter also makes it a healthier, allergy-friendly option that everyone can enjoy. If you’re searching for a recipe that balances convenience and comfort, this garlic butter chicken pasta is a must-try.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pasta:
For the Chicken
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 stick dairy-free butter, softened (regular butter works too)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried shallots
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Pasta & Optional Thickener
- 12 oz gluten-free spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for slurry if sauce needs thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into even, bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, mix together salt, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Toss chicken in the seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the garlic olive oil and lemon olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter and dried shallots to the skillet, letting the butter melt and the shallots soften. Stir in salt, black pepper, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder. Add lemon juice and chicken broth, stirring until the sauce is well combined.
If the sauce feels too thin, whisk together cold water and cornstarch, then stir it in to thicken.
5. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat it in the sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir again until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if you’d like. Serve immediately while warm.
About the Recipe
Why You’ll Love Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
This dish is the perfect balance of bold flavors and simple ingredients. The garlic butter sauce is rich and fragrant, while the Cajun seasoning adds a subtle kick that elevates the entire dish. Using gluten-free pasta keeps it lighter, but you can use any pasta you love.
Tips for Success
- Cut chicken evenly: Uniform cubes cook more evenly and stay juicy.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Keep it al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce.
- Taste the sauce before finishing: Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or dairy-free coconut cream for a richer sauce.
Variations to Try
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan or dairy-free cheese at the end.
- Protein Swap: Try shrimp or turkey breast instead of chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter chicken pasta pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or a warm baguette.
- A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving comes in at around 317 calories, making it a lighter pasta option compared to creamy Alfredo-style dishes. With 18 grams of protein and only 8 grams of fat, this dish is satisfying without being overly heavy. Using dairy-free butter and gluten-free pasta makes it friendly for a variety of dietary needs.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying, this garlic butter chicken pasta is the perfect solution. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish that’s full of bold garlic flavor, tender chicken, and perfectly sauced pasta.
It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel special, and with its simple ingredients, you’ll likely find yourself making it again and again. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your experience I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out in your kitchen!
