Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Looking for a meal that’s a hug on a plate? Look no further than Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken. This one-pan wonder is a lifesaver for busy nights when you crave something comforting yet deliciously easy to whip up. The rich, creamy sauce coats tender chicken and rotini pasta, creating a dish that tastes like a gourmet treat but is a breeze to make.

Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken has become my go-to recipe whenever I need to please a crowd or simply want to indulge in a satisfying meal. The aroma of sizzling fresh garlic sets the stage for a culinary experience that promises to delight your taste buds. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a planned gathering, this dish never fails to impress with its simplicity and flavor.

To elevate the experience, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color or experimenting with different pasta shapes and cheese options. And don’t forget a side of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that decadent sauce. Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace on a busy day, offering a taste of comfort and joy in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Rich and comforting meal that is perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings
• Requires minimal cleanup as it all cooks up in one pan
• Versatile and customizable – can use different types of pasta, swap chicken breasts for thighs, or adjust richness by using a combination of cream and broth
• Can be easily reheated and paired with sides like salad, veggies, or garlic bread for a complete meal

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The velvety garlic butter sauce hugs the chicken and rotini, creating a luxurious and comforting meal that tastes just like it came from a restaurant.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan not only makes the preparation and cleanup a breeze but also allows all the flavors to meld together for a delicious dish.
• Simple Ingredients: With basic pantry staples like garlic, butter, cream, and chicken, this recipe is easy to put together, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without compromising on taste.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, this dish will become a go-to favorite that your family will ask for over and over again. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by all.
• Versatile: You can customize this recipe according to your preferences by using different pasta shapes, substituting chicken thighs for breasts, or even changing up the type of cheese for a unique twist.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare extra portions and store them in the fridge for up to three days. The pasta will soak up even more flavors, and reheating is easy with a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.
• Great for Busy Nights: When you need a comforting and satisfying meal on a busy night, this creamy garlic butter chicken will hit the spot with its rich sauce and cozy vibes, bringing a little happiness to your table.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnish

• Chop up some fresh parsley if you want to throw it on top at the end

Cheese

• 60 g Parmesan, grated nice and fine

Liquids

• 240 ml heavy cream
• 120 ml chicken broth, low sodium works best

Aromatics

• 5 garlic cloves, smash and mince ’em

Seasonings

• Crack as much black pepper as you like
• Salt, toss in a pinch or two
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Oils and Fats

• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pasta

• 340 g rotini noodles

Poultry

• 680 g boneless chicken breasts, chop into small bites

Pro Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Pro tip 1: When making this Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken, ensure to keep the heat low after adding the cream and cheese to prevent the sauce from splitting. Consistent stirring will help maintain a smooth and luscious texture.

Pro tip 2: To enhance the flavor profile of the dish, consider using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier bite. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure proper doneness.

Pro tip 3: For a fresh and vibrant touch, chop up some fresh parsley or basil to sprinkle on top before serving. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of black pepper or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the dish’s overall taste and presentation.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Final Heating and Garnish

Allow the pan to sit on low heat for a few more minutes until everything is hot. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Return the pasta and chicken to the skillet and stir well to evenly coat with the sauce.

Step 3: Incorporate Cheese

Add the grated Parmesan and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 4: Simmer Cream Sauce

Combine chicken broth and heavy cream in a pan. Stir well and simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat if needed. Melt the butter in the pan, then add the minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Step 6: Sauté Chicken

Cook the seasoned chicken in a pan until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate.

Step 7: Season and Cook Chicken

Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Season chicken chunks with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before cooking in the skillet.

Step 8: Cook Pasta

Cook rotini noodles in salted water according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken dish, store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta in the dish tends to absorb the sauce, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy consistency. To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stove or in the microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

For variations on the recipe, consider using boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture or substituting different pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or fettuccine. If you don’t have Parmesan, alternatives like Pecorino or sharp cheddar can offer a unique flavor profile. To reduce richness, you can use a combination of cream and a lighter alternative. Enhance the dish by serving it with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for added crunch and flavor. Sprinkling with lemon zest or drizzling with olive oil can provide a refreshing touch to the finished dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino or a sharp cheddar for a different but delicious flavor profile. Additionally, if you prefer less richness, you can use half heavy cream and half milk instead of all cream to lighten the sauce while still maintaining creaminess.

For a juicier alternative to chicken breasts, boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of the breasts. They will provide a richer flavor and more succulent texture to the dish. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through compared to chicken breasts.

If you’re out of rotini noodles, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Different pasta shapes will still work well with the creamy garlic butter sauce and chicken. Just keep in mind that each pasta shape may affect how the sauce coats the noodles, but the overall flavor will still be delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken dish in a large communal bowl, allowing everyone to dish out their desired portion of creamy chicken, rotini, and sauce. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side of crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the rich sauce.

For a cozy and elegant presentation, serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken in individual pasta bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad to balance out the richness of the dish. To elevate the flavors, finish off with a touch of lemon zest for a burst of freshness that cuts through the creamy sauce.

FAQs for Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have rotini?

Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine can be used as substitutes for rotini in this recipe.

How can I prevent the sauce from splitting when adding cream and cheese?

Keep the heat low and stir continuously after pouring in the cream and cheese to ensure that the sauce stays smooth and does not split.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier bite. Use about the same amount for a richer taste.

How do I reheat the dish if I have leftovers?

To reheat the dish, warm it gently and splash in a little broth or cream to restore its silky texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that never fails to impress. It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights when you need a little pick-me-up. The velvety sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together effortlessly in one pan. And the best part? It tastes like a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to your liking—whether it’s using different pasta shapes, swapping chicken breasts for thighs, or experimenting with alternative cheeses. The beauty of Velvety Garlic Butter Chicken lies in its versatility and simplicity. So, whip up a batch, savor the creamy goodness, and revel in the cozy vibes it brings to your table.