Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Fresh Basil
Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Fresh Basil is a flavorful, comforting dinner featuring tender chicken, silky butter sauce, pasta, and fragrant basil. Moreover, this easy recipe comes together quickly, so it is ideal for busy weeknights.
Why This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Works
This Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta with Fresh Basil works because browned chicken adds savory flavor, while garlic butter coats every strand of pasta. Meanwhile, fresh basil brings a bright finish that balances the richness. As a result, the dish feels special while using simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Season and sear the chicken: Toss the sliced chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–6 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through. Transfer it to a plate.
- Make the garlic butter: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter, then stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, but do not let the garlic brown.
- Build the sauce: Add the reserved pasta water and lemon juice to the skillet. Simmer briefly, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Combine everything: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and Parmesan, then toss until glossy and well coated. Add a splash more pasta water if needed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Fold in the fresh basil, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan if desired.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Pro Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
- Slice the chicken evenly so it cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Do not overcook the garlic because burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Save pasta water before draining because its starch helps the sauce cling.
- Add fresh basil off the heat to preserve its color and aroma.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan because it melts more smoothly.
- For a creamier finish, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream before serving.
Storage Instructions
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally, and add fresh basil after reheating for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and provide extra moisture. Cook them until they reach a safe internal temperature.
Can I use dried basil?
You can, although fresh basil gives the brightest flavor. If using dried basil, add it to the garlic butter sauce earlier so it can release its flavor.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes pair nicely with the garlic butter sauce. Add vegetables according to their cooking time.
How can I make this pasta creamy?
Stir in a small amount of heavy cream or softened cream cheese after adding the pasta water. Keep the heat low so the sauce stays smooth.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and verify that the Parmesan and seasonings are gluten-free. Otherwise, prepare the recipe as written.
If you love easy chicken pasta dinners, try my One-Pan Chicken Alfredo for another creamy weeknight meal.
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