Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta: 5 Comforting Steps to Delight

Name: Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta: 5 Comforting Steps to Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian-Italian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon curry powder; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy butter chicken pasta. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for those evenings when you want to feel nourished and satisfied. I remember the first time I tried this delightful fusion of flavors; it was love at first bite! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a beautiful dance of flavors that just makes you smile. I often whip this dish up when friends come over or when I need a little pick-me-up after a long day. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so don’t worry if you’re not a pro in the kitchen! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a meal that feels special without spending hours slaving away. Let’s dive into the details of making this creamy butter chicken pasta, and I promise you’ll be serving it up again and again!

creamy butter chicken pasta - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making your creamy butter chicken pasta a success! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups pasta: Any pasta you love works here! I usually go for penne or fusilli because they hold onto the sauce so well.
1 pound chicken breast, diced: Tender and juicy chicken is key for this dish. Make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2 tablespoons butter: This is where the richness comes from. I always opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion adds a lovely sweetness and depth. Don’t rush this part; give it a nice chop!
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds that aromatic punch that makes your kitchen smell divine.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine in a pinch!
1 tablespoon curry powder: This spice is the star of the show! It brings warmth and a hint of exotic flavor to your pasta.
Salt to taste: Always taste as you go, and season to your preference!
Fresh cilantro for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness at the end. You can also use parsley if you prefer.

With these ingredients ready to go, you’re all set to create a comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Prepare Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta

Now that we have all our ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking! This creamy butter chicken pasta comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, let’s cook our pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes around 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. You want it tender but still firm to the bite. Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water—about half a cup—just in case you need to loosen up the sauce later!

Preparing the Chicken and Sauce

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show: the chicken! In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Oh, the smell is heavenly already!

Next, add your diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook this for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown all over. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Now, sprinkle in that tablespoon of curry powder and a pinch of salt, stirring to combine everything evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The sauce will thicken beautifully, coating the chicken with that creamy goodness.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

Alright, the final step! Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in that luscious sauce. If it seems a bit thick, don’t fret! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. I promise, those flavors will meld together perfectly, creating a dish that’s hard to resist!

And just like that, you’re all set with your creamy butter chicken pasta! Serve it warm and garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra touch. Enjoy every bite!

Tips for Success

Making creamy butter chicken pasta is a delightful experience, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results! Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:

Don’t skip the salt: Salting your pasta water is essential! It enhances the flavor of the pasta and sets a great foundation for your dish. Aim for a generous amount—like the ocean, as my grandma used to say!
Use a good-quality chicken: The chicken is the star of this dish, so opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast. If you can, visit your local butcher or farmer’s market for the best flavor.
Watch the heat: When cooking the chicken, keep the heat at medium. Too high, and you might burn the butter or end up with dry chicken. You want that golden-brown color, not charred bits!
Adjust the seasoning: Remember to taste your sauce as it simmers. You might find that it needs a pinch more salt or a bit more curry powder to suit your taste buds. Don’t be shy about tweaking it!
Add veggies for extra nutrition: If you want to sneak in some veggies, consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or peas to the sauce. They’ll add color, flavor, and extra nutrients!
Make it a meal prep favorite: This dish stores wonderfully in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep it creamy!
Garnish generously: Never underestimate the power of a good garnish! Fresh cilantro or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to making a creamy butter chicken pasta that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to savor the delicious results!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

One of the best things about creamy butter chicken pasta is its flexibility! If you have dietary restrictions or want to switch things up, there are plenty of substitutions that can still deliver delicious results. Here are some ideas:

Chicken Alternatives: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute! Just press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it until golden brown before adding it to the sauce. It absorbs the flavors beautifully!
Pasta Choices: For those with gluten sensitivities, don’t worry! You can easily use gluten-free pasta varieties. Brown rice pasta or lentil-based pasta works wonderfully and will give you that comforting texture without the gluten.
Dairy-Free Option: If you want to avoid dairy, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a nut-based cream. This will provide a lovely creaminess while keeping the dish light and dairy-free.
Broth Alternatives: If you’re vegetarian or vegan, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. It adds the necessary depth of flavor without compromising your dietary choices.
Herb and Spice Variations: Feel free to play around with the spices! If curry powder isn’t your thing, you could use a combination of cumin, paprika, and turmeric for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also complement the dish well.
Onion and Garlic Substitutes: For those who are sensitive to onion or garlic, you can use shallots or skip them altogether. A sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can be a milder alternative.

Experimenting with these substitutions can make your creamy butter chicken pasta unique to your taste and needs. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and create a meal that’s perfect for you!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up your creamy butter chicken pasta, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful! Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this comforting dish to elevate your dining experience:

Garlic Bread: There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of garlic bread to accompany your pasta. It’s perfect for mopping up that rich, creamy sauce. Just spread some butter and minced garlic on slices of a nice baguette, bake until golden, and enjoy!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a lovely crunch and balances the richness of the pasta. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Roasted Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition to your meal with roasted vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli roasted with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt bring vibrant flavors that complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
Steamed Asparagus: A side of steamed asparagus is light and elegant. Just steam until tender and drizzle with a little lemon juice or olive oil for a touch of brightness.
Fruit Salad: For a sweet finish, consider serving a simple fruit salad. Fresh fruits like berries, mango, or pineapple can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing end to your meal.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity rosé pairs wonderfully with the creamy butter chicken pasta, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.

These serving suggestions not only complement your creamy butter chicken pasta but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your delicious creation and the wonderful company that comes with it!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for a serving of creamy butter chicken pasta. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guideline:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Remember, if you’re making any substitutions or using different brands, the nutritional values might change. It’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy your creamy butter chicken pasta while being mindful of your dietary needs!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I often hear about creamy butter chicken pasta. I hope these answers help you feel more confident as you dive into making this comforting dish!

What’s the cooking time for creamy butter chicken pasta?

The total cooking time is around 30 minutes! This includes about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and 20 minutes to cook everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I make creamy butter chicken pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to keep it creamy.

Can I freeze creamy butter chicken pasta?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just remember that the texture may change slightly when thawed. To freeze, allow it to cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat it gently.

What can I use instead of chicken in this recipe?

If you want a vegetarian option, tofu is a fantastic substitute! Just press and cube firm tofu, then sauté it until golden brown. You could also use chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a hearty, plant-based meal.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the curry powder or even skip it altogether. For a bit more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the sauce. Adjust it to your taste!

How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the chicken is no longer pink inside and juices run clear. Just cut a piece open to check if you’re unsure!

I hope these FAQs help you feel more prepared and excited to make your own creamy butter chicken pasta! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions as you cook. Enjoy the process and the delicious meal that follows!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.

To learn more about the nutritional value of pasta, check out NutritionValue.org.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.