Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, quick to whip up, and irresistibly comforting, Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta is about to become your new favorite dinner. This dish blends tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious garlic butter sauce that’s given a fiery kick from red pepper flakes. Tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta and finished with Parmesan and fresh parsley, it’s a harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and savory that hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a busy weeknight or feeding a hungry family, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. It’s a great way to elevate simple ingredients into a dinner that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll keep coming back to this spicy garlic butter chicken pasta again and again.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta recipe is a keeper for several reasons:

• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The garlic butter sauce infused with red pepper flakes provides a delightful spicy kick balanced by creamy richness.
• Versatile: You can easily swap penne for other pasta shapes or add your favorite veggies.
• Family-Friendly: Adjust the heat level to suit your taste buds and enjoy a meal everyone will love.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients without any complicated steps.

If you adore dishes like Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti, this pasta will fit perfectly into your rotation of easy, delicious dinners.

What You’ll Need

• 8 oz penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold the sauce and bits of chicken.
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: For that rich, buttery flavor in the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives that signature aromatic punch.
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds mild warmth and depth.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Creates a light sauce and helps deglaze the pan.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory umami and creaminess.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Brightens and freshens the dish.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the chicken and make the sauce.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Knife and cutting board: For dicing chicken and chopping garlic and parsley.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For precise seasoning and liquids.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the chicken and sauce.

Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Cooking Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stir to coat in the sauce.

Step 6: Toss Pasta and Finish

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a spicy, buttery pasta dish with chicken. If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy trying the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo for a different take on garlic and chicken.

If You’re Out Of…

• Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth or water with a pinch of chicken bouillon powder.
• Parmesan cheese: Substitute with Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese.
• Unsalted butter: Use salted butter but reduce added salt to balance flavors.
• Red pepper flakes: Use cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Fresh parsley: Substitute with fresh basil, cilantro, or dried parsley.

Problems & Prevention

One common issue with this dish is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough. To prevent this, dice the chicken evenly for uniform cooking and keep an eye on it as it cooks. Another challenge is burning the garlic, which can cause bitterness. Cook the garlic gently over medium heat and remove from heat as soon as it’s golden and fragrant.

If your sauce is too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps loosen it while adding starch to bind the sauce. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

Storage Pro Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and prevent dryness.

This dish is also freezer-friendly. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use other pasta shapes instead of penne?

Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

How can I reduce the spiciness if I’m sensitive to heat?

Reduce the red pepper flakes to 1/4 teaspoon or omit entirely. You can also add a splash of cream or milk to mellow the sauce.

Is it okay to use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just cook them thoroughly and adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The garlic butter sauce remains the star!

You Might Also Like

• Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo – Another irresistible garlic chicken dish with a sweet twist.
• Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Fettuccine – Rich, buttery, and packed with umami flavors.
• Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti – A bright and fresh pasta dish perfect for garlic lovers.

Make It Tonight

Ready to make your taste buds sing? Gather your ingredients and start cooking this Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta tonight. It’s a vibrant, hearty dish that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner recipe book. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite beverage for a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Enjoy every spicy, garlicky, buttery bite!

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