Ingredients
For the Flavored Butter:
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tbsp chopped chives
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp salt
Pinch of red pepper flakes
½ lemon juice and zest
For the Pasta Dish:
12 oz (340 g) pasta (linguine recommended)
2 tsp salt (for pasta water)
6 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (or as needed)
1 large shallot, finely diced
1 cup (150 g) bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, orange mix)
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
4 tbsp flavored butter (from above)
½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
4 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
-
Prepare the flavored butter:
Combine all butter ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside. You’ll only need about half for the pasta; the rest can be stored for later use. -
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. -
Prepare the chicken:
Slice chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces. Toss with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. -
Sear the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear chicken for about 4 minutes until lightly browned. Chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. -
Cook the vegetables:
Reduce heat slightly. Add shallots, sliced garlic, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 75°C, approx. 8–10 minutes). -
Combine pasta and sauce:
Add 4 tbsp of flavored butter to the pan, then toss in the cooked pasta. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water until the sauce is silky and coats the pasta evenly. -
Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra Parmesan. Optional: serve with garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Notes
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
- Reserved pasta water helps create a velvety sauce without adding more cream. Adjust according to desired consistency.
- Leftover chicken pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or cream.
- Always check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min