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Ultimate Comfort Chicken Pasta Recipe with Smoky Garlic Butter Sauce

This comforting chicken pasta features tender chicken and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy smoky garlic butter sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines indulgent flavors with quick preparation time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
  2. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and half the smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in remaining smoked paprika and onion powder.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting. Smoked paprika is key for the smoky flavor - don't skip it. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat with splash of cream or broth.