Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, glistening with rich, garlic-infused butter, topped with juicy grilled chicken that melts in your mouth. This isn't just another pasta recipe—it's a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend kitchen warrior, this Grilled Chicken and Butter Spaghetti is about to become your new go-to comfort food that's both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 4 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of spaghetti, 2 boneless chicken breasts, 4 tbsp of butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- When the spaghetti is done cooking, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and add it directly to the skillet with the garlic butter.
- Toss the spaghetti in the garlic butter, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice the grilled chicken breasts into strips and serve them on top of the butter spaghetti.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken and Butter Spaghetti!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Pasta Water Magic: Never discard all your pasta water! The starchy liquid helps create a silky, clingy sauce that coats your spaghetti beautifully.
- Butter Matters: Use high-quality butter for the most luxurious flavor. If possible, opt for European-style butter with a higher fat content.
- Garlic Technique: Mince your garlic finely and watch it closely while sautéing. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the entire dish.
- Resting the Chicken: Let your grilled chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Fresh Herbs: Don't skip the parsley! Fresh herbs add a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the butter sauce.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat or grated Parmesan cheese for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
