Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken bites and creamy, cheesy pasta in a flavorful garlic-infused sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is easy to make yet indulgent enough to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything you need for a satisfying meal: juicy, golden brown chicken bites, creamy Parmesan pasta, and a burst of garlic flavor. The sauce is rich and velvety, perfectly complementing the pasta, while the chicken adds a savory bite. It’s a quick and simple dinner option that delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this meal will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken Bites:

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.

Cook the Pasta:

1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Pour in the heavy cream and add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

4. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine:

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.

2. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and gently toss everything together.

3. Let it simmer for a minute to allow the flavors to blend.

Serve:

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 2-3

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

2. Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Swap the Chicken: Use shrimp or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh as an alternative to the chicken bites.

4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or pasta water to help restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and texture.

Can I make the creamy Parmesan sauce ahead of time?

The sauce is best made fresh for the creamiest texture, but you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese to make the dish dairy-free.

Can I use store-bought garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use garlic powder in place of fresh garlic, but fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor.

Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more Parmesan or even a bit of mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish can be frozen, though the creamy sauce may not be as smooth after freezing. To freeze, store the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce, and reheat on the stove.

How do I get the chicken to be golden brown?

Make sure the chicken is cooked in a single layer in the skillet and allow it to brown undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even beef, depending on your preference.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is an easy yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich garlic butter chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta, creating a flavor-packed dish that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying. Enjoy!