A Comforting and Flavor-Packed Meal for Any Occasion
There’s something truly special about the combination of tender, juicy chicken bites coated in garlic butter, paired with a creamy, rich Parmesan pasta. This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food—simple enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for a special occasion.
If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful meals that come together quickly, this recipe is for you. With a harmonious blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s made with pantry staples and requires minimal prep time, making it a go-to dish when you need a satisfying, home-cooked meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and creamy: The Parmesan sauce is ultra-luxurious and pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Customizable: Use your favorite pasta, add veggies, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy pasta and flavorful chicken bites.
- Great for meal prep: Stores well for leftovers and can be reheated easily.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the creamy pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with extra parsley and serve immediately.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
Tips and Variations
Substitutions and Additions
- Pasta options: Try spaghetti, linguine, or rigatoni instead of penne.
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce the richness.
- Protein swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Shortcut Tips
- Use pre-minced garlic to save time.
- Buy pre-cooked chicken if you’re in a hurry.
- Prepare the sauce while the pasta cooks to make the process seamless.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: The pasta and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months (though cream-based sauces may separate slightly when reheated).
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
Perfect Pairings
Wine Pairing:
A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Side Dishes:
- A light arugula salad with balsamic dressing.
- Garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving for the best texture.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Make sure to simmer gently and avoid high heat. Adding the Parmesan gradually while stirring helps maintain a smooth consistency.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar texture.
Is this dish spicy?
Not at all! If you like heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
Try This Recipe Today!
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. It’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at dinner.
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