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Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta - Easy One Pan Comfort Dinner

This one-pan chicken pasta features smoky paprika, rich garlic butter, and tender chicken in a creamy sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, the dish offers extraordinary comfort food with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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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 chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp regular paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken 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. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add remaining smoked paprika and regular paprika to the butter, stirring to combine. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  7. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting. The reserved pasta water is key as the starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta. Pairs well with sesame green beans or a crisp salad.