If you adore the warmth of Indian spices and the comforting embrace of creamy pasta, then you are in for a treat with this Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe. It brilliantly marries the classic flavors of rich, buttery chicken simmered in a fragrant tomato-based sauce with tender pasta, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting. This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying with a delightful twist, combining the best of two beloved cuisines into one unforgettable plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe uses simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the aromatic spices to the creamy almond butter, every element is essential for creating the perfect balance.
- 10.5 oz (300 g) short pasta: Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a fruity, light base for sautéing your chicken and aromatics.
- 1 tablespoon (20 g) butter: Brings richness and enhances the sauce’s luxurious texture.
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides lean protein that soaks up the spices beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Adds a punchy aroma to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped: Brings warmth and a slight zing to balance the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: The soul of the dish offering a fragrant, complex spice blend.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces earthiness and nuttiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrus-like freshness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides mild heat and smoky undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Imparts a beautiful amber color and a gentle, peppery flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes: Enhances the dish with an extra kick of heat.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 2 cups (400 ml) tomato sauce (passata): Forms the vibrant, velvety base of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons almond butter: Adds creamy richness and a slight nuttiness but keeps the sauce dairy-light.
- 1 cup (200 ml) half and half (single cream): Brings luscious creaminess to the sauce.
- A handful fresh cilantro (coriander): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and elevating all flavors.
How to Make Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by preparing your pasta just until al dente as per the package instructions, which means it will be cooked but still firm to the bite. Don’t forget to reserve one to two cups of the pasta water before draining because this starchy water will be a secret weapon for perfecting the sauce’s consistency later on.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large pan over medium heat until bubbling. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This initial searing locks in flavor and juices while giving the chicken a lovely texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Next up, toss in the diced onion, chopped garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir them around and cook gently until they soften and release their enticing aromas. These foundational ingredients build a delicious base that will carry the spices and sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and red chili flakes. Cooking the spices briefly in the pan awakens their full flavor potential, filling your kitchen with the mouthwatering scent of Indian spices that hints at the magic to come.
Step 5: Add Sauce
Blend in the tomato paste and pour in the tomato sauce (passata). Stir everything together, then gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the mixture feels too thick. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, letting all those flavors meld into a luscious, fragrant harmony.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
It’s time for the creamy element. Stir in the almond butter and half and half, then let it simmer again until the sauce thickens to that perfect velvety texture that will cling to every piece of pasta and chicken. The almond butter lends a rich, nutty twist while keeping the sauce silky.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing everything thoroughly so every strand is coated in that creamy, spiced goodness. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top, adjust with salt and pepper according to your taste, and you’re ready to serve a comforting, richly flavored dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
How to Serve Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic choice that adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbaceous note against the richness of the sauce. You could also sprinkle some toasted almonds for crunch or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors right on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crunchy side salad or warm garlic naan can elevate the meal. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make a lovely accompaniment, providing a fresh and vibrant contrast to the creamy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual oven-safe dishes and sprinkle a layer of mozzarella or cheddar on top, then broil until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, present it family-style in a large bowl with cilantro and chili flakes scattered atop, perfect for casual gatherings and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing the flavors to deepen even further overnight.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so without the pasta first. Freeze the chicken sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth without drying the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best to hold the sauce, you can experiment with fusilli, shells, or even spaghetti according to your preference.
Is almond butter essential in this recipe?
Almond butter adds unique creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the sauce, but if you have allergies or preferences, you can substitute it with cashew butter or plain cream for a more traditional finish.
How spicy is this Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The recipe offers a moderate heat level due to chili powder and red chili flakes, but you can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing these according to your taste buds.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with paneer cubes or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to create a vibrant vegetarian version while keeping all the saucy, spiced goodness.
What’s the best way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Using gluten-free pasta varieties works well here, and just ensure your tomato sauce and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten. The spices and cooking method remain the same.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe is a joyful celebration of rich Indian flavors harmoniously blending with classic pasta comfort. It’s a dish that invites creativity but rewards with guaranteed deliciousness every single time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a whirl and watch it become a fast favorite at your dining table.
Print
Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion – Indian and Italian
Description
This Butter Chicken Pasta recipe combines the rich, spiced flavors of traditional Indian butter chicken with the comforting texture of short pasta. In just 30 minutes, tender chicken pieces are cooked in a creamy tomato and almond butter sauce infused with aromatic spices, then tossed with al dente pasta for a delicious fusion meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10.5 oz (300 g) short pasta
Cooking Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (20 g) butter
Protein
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups (400 ml) tomato sauce (passata)
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
- 1 cup (200 ml) half and half (single cream)
Garnish & Seasoning
- A handful fresh cilantro (coriander)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining the pasta and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion, chopped garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Spice it up: Add garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and red chili flakes to the pan with the aromatics. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- Add sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Then pour in the tomato sauce (passata), mixing well. If the sauce looks too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the almond butter and half and half (single cream). Continue to simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes rich and creamy.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and toss in the drained pasta. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Add chopped fresh cilantro, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking during searing.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or red chili flakes gradually.
- Almond butter adds creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor; peanut butter can be substituted if almond butter is not available.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you want to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Reserve pasta water is important for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
