🧈🍗 Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Butter Chicken Pasta is a delicious fusion dish that combines the rich, creamy flavors of classic butter chicken with tender pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. Juicy pieces of chicken are cooked in a buttery tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and warm spices, then tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The result is a hearty, flavorful dinner that's both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ready in about 40 minutes, this creamy pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or serving guests who love bold, comforting flavors.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Yield
- Servings: 4–6
- Makes: 1 large skillet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Optional Add-Ins
- Baby spinach
- Mushrooms
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh mozzarella
- Green peas
Preparation & Cooking
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with paprika, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, cook the onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sugar if using. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Ideas
- Garlic naan
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Cucumber salad
Storage
Store leftover Butter Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth.
Tips
- Chicken thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor.
- Freshly grated Parmesan creates the smoothest sauce.
- Don't overcook the pasta—it will continue to absorb the sauce.
- Adjust the spices to suit your preferred heat level.
Variations
- Add spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Stir in mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Conclusion
Butter Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful fusion recipe that brings together the comforting richness of butter chicken and the satisfying texture of pasta. With tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a velvety tomato cream sauce, this easy homemade dinner is perfect for family meals, special occasions, or anytime you're craving a hearty and delicious pasta dish.

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