Looking for a comforting yet quick dinner idea that everyone will love? This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is the perfect answer! Juicy, tender chicken bites infused with garlic butter goodness are paired with a velvety, cheesy pasta that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need a satisfying weeknight meal, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Packed with protein and creamy indulgence, it’s a meal that’s both delicious and fulfilling. Plus, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require a ton of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
Personal Experience
The first time I made this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together.
The garlic butter glaze on the chicken paired with the creamy pasta sauce was a match made in heaven.
My family went back for seconds, and it has since become a staple in our weekly rotation. Trust me, you’ll love it as much as we do!
Equipment List
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe – Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1:
Cook the pasta by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Step 2:
Prepare the chicken bites by seasoning the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add minced garlic and chili flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3:
Make the creamy Parmesan sauce in the same skillet by adding olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4:
Combine the pasta by adding the cooked pasta to the skillet and tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.
Step 5:
Finish the dish by returning the chicken bites to the skillet and tossing everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor in both the chicken and sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; remove it as soon as it’s no longer pink inside.
- Grate your Parmesan cheese from a block for the creamiest sauce.
- Reserve pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently; avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add more red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Cheese Blend: Mix Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or zest for a bright, tangy twist.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a foolproof way to impress your taste buds and loved ones.
With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
Give it a try and let the deliciousness speak for itself. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—we’d love to hear from you!
FAQs
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use the stove on low heat or a microwave, and add a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Avoid overheating to maintain the quality of the sauce and chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or lentils.
Also, double-check that all other ingredients, such as chicken broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free to ensure the recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
Avoid freezing the pasta, as it may become mushy when reheated. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, cooking fresh pasta to combine.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes optional
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz 225 g pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the chicken bites by seasoning the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Add minced garlic and chili flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the creamy Parmesan sauce in the same skillet by adding olive oil and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Add grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, whisking until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the pasta by adding the cooked pasta to the skillet and tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.
- Finish the dish by returning the chicken bites to the skillet and tossing everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor in both the chicken and sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; remove it as soon as it’s no longer pink inside.
- Grate your Parmesan cheese from a block for the creamiest sauce.
- Reserve pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency.
- Allow the sauce to simmer gently; avoid boiling to prevent curdling.