Cooking method
Cook the pasta: Boil spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove and let rest.
Make the creamy sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
Build the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Add cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, dilute with reserved pasta water.
Combine: Slice the chicken, add it back to the skillet, and toss together with the spaghetti to ensure every strand is coated in the sauce.
Finish and serve: Plate your creamy pasta with the sliced chicken on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
To make the most of your Juicy Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meal. For wine pairings, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay complements the buttery flavors beautifully.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. The dish can be eaten within 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to revive the creamy sauce. For longer storage, this dish freezes well; just ensure it’s thoroughly cooled and sealed before placing it in the freezer.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ingredient Quality: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. If you can, grate your cheese rather than using pre-packaged kind, as it melts more smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but remain juicy by checking with a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: Keep extra chicken broth or reserved pasta water handy in case the sauce gets too thick when reheating.
Creative twists
Feel like mixing things up? You can add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for an extra pop of color and flavor. For a spicy kick, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Alternatively, swap the Parmesan with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different cheesy profile.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
This dish can be prepared in about 10-15 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes for cooking.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to use fettuccine, penne, or any pasta shape you prefer.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also ensure it’s cooked by cutting into the thickest part—there should be no pink remaining.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Just store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain the best texture when reheating.
