Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Chicken Bites:; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:; 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or your preferred type); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; Extra garlic butter (optional, for drizzling)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful: Tender chicken bites in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with creamy Parmesan pasta.
Comforting: A hearty meal that blends savory chicken with creamy pasta, satisfying your cravings.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is loved by all ages, perfect for family dinners.
Versatile: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap pasta types to suit your preferences.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

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

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In another pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the creamy sauce for more flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the garlic butter sauce for a spicy twist.
Different Pastas: Swap fettuccine for penne, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a dairy-free dish.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will result in a juicier and more flavorful dish.

What pasta works best with this recipe?

Penne, fettuccine, or any pasta that holds sauce well are great options.

How can I lighten the cream sauce?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and reduce the amount of butter to make it lighter.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components in advance and store them separately. Combine and reheat before serving.

How do I reheat leftovers without the sauce breaking?

Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to restore the sauce’s smooth texture.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the rich flavors of this dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

While Parmesan is the traditional choice, you can try using other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can store the chicken and pasta separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to use room temperature cream and gradually add it to the pan. Stir constantly while adding cheese to keep the sauce smooth.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms will work well with this creamy sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The tender chicken in garlic butter and the rich Parmesan pasta create a balanced, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone.