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 pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons salt (for boiling water); 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Family Quick Meals Ideas

I love making this Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet because it's the perfect weeknight meal that comes together in no time. The rich buttery garlic sauce envelops the tender chicken and pasta, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that my whole family enjoys. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal ingredients, making it an easy option for busy nights or cozy family dinners. Plus, the one-pan method means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:37:36.924Z

When I first decided to try a pasta skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it all came together. The combination of fresh garlic sautéed in butter and the tender chicken made for a fragrant, mouthwatering experience in the kitchen. I found that using fresh herbs really elevates the dish, giving it that extra layer of flavor that supermarket herbs just can't compete with.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, whether it's spinach or bell peppers, and it always turns out delicious. If you're like me and enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a perfect kick that all my friends rave about!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic garlic butter creates an irresistible sauce
One-pan preparation for quick and easy cleanup
Versatile ingredients mean you can customize to your taste

Mastering the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is the star of this dish, delivering a rich and aromatic flavor that complements the chicken and pasta beautifully. When melting the butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid browning it too quickly, which can turn the butter bitter. Adding the minced garlic after the butter has melted allows it to infuse into the sauce without burning—sauté until you see the garlic become golden and fragrant, typically around 1 minute. Once you add the chicken broth, the sauce will gain a lovely depth, so don’t skimp on this ingredient.

For those who enjoy a bit more spice, incorporating the red pepper flakes is an excellent choice. Add them along with the garlic to help release their flavor, enhancing the overall profile of the dish without overwhelming the palate. If you're sensitive to spice, feel free to adjust or omit this ingredient. This sauce can also serve as a base for other variations; consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Choosing Your Pasta Wisely

The type of pasta you choose can subtly impact the dish's flavor and texture. I suggest using pasta shapes that can hold onto the sauce, such as penne or farfalle, as they allow the garlic butter to cling beautifully. For a gluten-free version, swap in chickpea or rice pasta. Cooking the pasta until al dente is essential—this means a little firm to the bite so that it doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce. Don't forget to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust the sauce's consistency if needed during the final mix.

Also, while the recipe calls for 8 ounces of pasta, scaling up for larger gatherings is straightforward—just adjust the ingredient amounts proportionally and consider using a larger pot to avoid overcrowding. Cooking in batches can help maintain a beautiful texture, especially if you're using a shape that requires longer cooking times.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet is not only quick to make but also a perfect candidate for meal prep. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, I recommend reheating it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce, preventing the pasta from drying out.

If you’re planning to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so without the Parmesan cheese, as freezing can alter its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned. You can always add freshly grated Parmesan while reheating for that perfect creamy finish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Directions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, add chicken broth, and stir in the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. Mix in Parmesan cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips

Pro Tips

For an even more flavorful dish, add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter before adding the chicken. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you find yourself short on chicken, diced shrimp or even cubed firm tofu can serve as excellent substitutes. Both options will cook quickly, absorbing the flavors of the garlic butter sauce delightfully. Ensure shrimp turns pink and opaque while cooking, and give tofu enough time to become crispy in the skillet for the best outcomes.

Additionally, if you want to make this dish dairy-free, you can replace the butter with olive oil and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great option that mimics the savory, cheesy flavor while keeping it entirely vegan. Remember to adjust seasonings to ensure your dish remains flavorful.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the garlic butter. Fresh greens like arugula or spinach add a nice peppery note, while cherry tomatoes provide a sweet contrast. For a heartier addition, consider serving with garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

For a beverage pairing, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the buttery chicken and pasta well. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a fresh lemon wedge to enhance your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works great in this recipe and adds extra fiber.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or even water if you're in a pinch, but broth will enhance the flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli.