If you’re craving a cozy, delicious, and quick-to-make meal, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe checks all the boxes. Tender chicken bites are seared in a garlic butter sauce and paired with rich, cheesy pasta for the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a date-night dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 10 oz (300 g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite variety)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites: Season chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter and cook for 1–2 minutes more. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir frequently until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Stir in fresh parsley and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, richest sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it once golden for juicy bites.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
Variations and Add-ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu.
- Add vegetables like spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or broccoli.
- Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in 35 minutes
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
- Family-friendly and satisfying
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