Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Imagine combining two comfort food classics—rich, buttery Indian butter chicken and creamy, indulgent pasta—into one irresistible dish. This Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta is a fusion masterpiece that blends bold, aromatic spices with a velvety tomato-cream sauce, all tossed with tender, perfectly cooked pasta.

This dish was born out of a craving for something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor. While traditional butter chicken is typically served with naan or rice, this version takes a modern twist by incorporating pasta, making it an easy, comforting meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes like Alfredo but want something with more depth and spice, this recipe will be your new favorite. Let’s dive in!

Why I Love This Recipe

this …

The Perfect Balance of Spice and Creaminess

One of the best things about this Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta is how it seamlessly blends rich Indian flavors with the comforting texture of pasta. The sauce is a luscious mix of tomatoes, cream, butter, and warm spices like garam masala and cumin, giving it that signature buttery depth.

The pasta soaks up the creamy sauce, making each bite decadent yet balanced. Unlike a traditional Alfredo or marinara sauce, this one has a unique complexity—sweet, tangy, buttery, and slightly smoky—all in one bowl.

Easy Yet Gourmet

While butter chicken may seem intimidating, this recipe is surprisingly simple. Everything comes together in one pan, and the pasta cooks separately, making it an easy, no-fuss meal. Perfect for meal prep, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.

Ingredients for Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Flavor

To make this fusion pasta dish, you’ll need a mix of classic butter chicken ingredients along with pasta-friendly elements.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken and adds tang.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the marinade.
• 1 tsp turmeric powder – Adds a warm, earthy color.
• 1 tsp garam masala – Essential for that authentic Indian flavor.
• 1 tsp cumin powder – Deepens the warmth.
• 1 tsp chili powder – Adjust to your spice preference.
• ½ tsp salt – Enhances the flavors.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic – A must for bold flavor.
• 1 tbsp minced ginger – Adds a zesty kick.

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter – The heart of any butter chicken recipe.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Prevents the butter from burning.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds a natural sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – More garlic means more flavor.
• 1 tsp garam masala – Reinforces the warm spice.
• 1 tsp cumin powder – Works in harmony with the other spices.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness.
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste) – Balances the dish.
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream – Creates the signature creamy texture.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Helps thin out the sauce while adding flavor.

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine – Holds the sauce beautifully.
• Water and salt for boiling – Enhances the pasta’s flavor.

For Garnishing:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped – Adds color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan (optional) – For an extra cheesy touch.

How Much Time Will You Need

This Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (marinating chicken and chopping ingredients)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Make This Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce

In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté until soft and golden. Add garlic and spices (garam masala, cumin, paprika) and stir for 30 seconds. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Blend and Add Cream

For a smooth texture, blend the sauce using an immersion blender (or let it cool slightly and blend in a regular blender). Return the sauce to the pan and stir in the heavy cream.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley, and optionally, grated Parmesan for an extra layer of richness. Serve warm!

Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Here are some great alternatives:

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and vegan butter.
• Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or zoodles.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with paneer, tofu, or chickpeas.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta

To make this meal even more enjoyable, pair it with these delicious sides:

1. Garlic Naan or Flatbread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Adds balance and a hint of smokiness.
3. Cucumber Raita – A cooling yogurt dip to complement the spices.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Make It Look Restaurant-Worthy

A well-presented dish makes every bite more enjoyable! Here’s how to serve your Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta beautifully:

• Choose the Right Plate: Use a wide, shallow bowl to allow the sauce to spread evenly across the pasta. White plates work best to highlight the rich, golden-orange color of the sauce.
• Garnish Generously: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of green. A light dusting of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta adds a gourmet touch.
• Drizzle with Extra Butter or Cream: Before serving, drizzle a small spoonful of melted butter or a swirl of cream over the pasta for an extra glossy finish.
• Add a Side of Naan or Garlic Bread: Serve warm naan or crispy garlic bread on the side for an authentic Indian-Italian fusion feel.

Tips and Tricks to Make This Recipe Even Better

Small Changes, Big Impact

• For a Richer Sauce: Add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. It enhances the buttery sweetness.
• Boost the Smokiness: Stir in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to deepen the flavor.
• Make it Spicier: For those who love heat, add extra chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Let It Rest: After mixing everything together, let the pasta sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use Freshly Cooked Pasta: Avoid using pre-cooked or leftover pasta—freshly cooked pasta absorbs the sauce better and tastes fresher.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid These Pitfalls for Perfect Pasta

• Skipping the Chicken Marinade: Marinating the chicken is key to its tenderness and flavor. Even a quick 30-minute marinade makes a difference!
• Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook pasta 1 minute less than the package instructions since it continues cooking in the sauce.
• Not Blending the Sauce: If you prefer a silky-smooth sauce, blending is essential. Otherwise, the tomato chunks may overpower the dish.
• Using Low-Fat Dairy: Full-fat heavy cream gives the best creamy texture. Low-fat alternatives can make the sauce grainy.
• Not Saving Pasta Water: Adding ¼ cup of reserved pasta water when mixing can help the sauce stick to the pasta.

How to Store Creamy Butter Chicken Pasta

Keeping It Fresh for Later

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
• Reheating Tip: If reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I Use Store-Bought Butter Chicken Sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought sauce can work, but homemade sauce gives a fresher, more authentic taste.

3. What’s the Best Pasta for This Dish?

Penne, rigatoni, and fettuccine work best because they hold onto the sauce well. Avoid delicate pastas like angel hair, as they might become mushy.

4. Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for paneer, tofu, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

5. What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?

You can use coconut cream, Greek yogurt, or cashew cream as dairy-free substitutes. Just note that it may slightly alter the flavor.

Print