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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings together rich, comforting flavors with a touch of elegance, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Tender, golden chicken bites infused with garlicky butter slide beautifully over a luscious, velvety Parmesan pasta that’s utterly comforting yet impressively simple to whip up. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and that irresistible homey feel that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but play starring roles in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe so special. Each one is vital—from the savory chicken seasoning to the creamy pasta sauce, ensuring a balance of richness, zest, and indulgence.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides juicy, tender protein that soaks up the garlic butter flavor.
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided: The glue of buttery goodness for both cooking the chicken and creating the sauce base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic punch and warmth to the chicken bites.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers mild smokiness and a lovely color to the seasoned chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings subtle heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional): A little kick for those who love spice.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of green to finish.
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice): The starchy canvas that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter with a subtle fruitiness in the sauce.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Creates that rich, velvety texture that makes the sauce decadent.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, nutty star that thickens and flavors the creamy pasta sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlicky essence in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional): A gentle warmth that elevates cream sauces beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—meaning just tender but still with a little bite. Be sure to save about half a cup of that pasta water before draining, as it’s a secret weapon for loosening up your sauce later, bringing everything together with silky perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, toss those bite-sized chicken pieces with paprika, salt, pepper, and the optional chili flakes if you like a hint of heat. These simple spices transform plain chicken into flavorful morsels packed with a subtle smoky and spicy edge that complements the creamy pasta so well.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bubbling and fragrant. Add the seasoned chicken, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally so each bite gets that lovely golden crust and cooks through evenly. This step seals in all the juicy flavor, creating a delicious base for your dish.
Step 4: Add Garlic Butter
Drop in another tablespoon of butter along with the minced garlic directly into the skillet with the chicken. Stir quickly so the chicken bites get coated in that buttery garlic goodness. The sizzling garlic infuses its irresistible aroma throughout, turning the chicken into little bursts of flavor. Then, scoop the chicken out and set aside, leaving all those tasty garlic bits behind for the sauce.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream followed by garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and if you’re feeling fancy, a pinch of nutmeg. Bring this rich mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into a velvety, luscious sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, gently whisk in some of that reserved pasta water until it reaches your ideal consistency.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it lovingly in the creamy Parmesan sauce until every strand is evenly coated. This step ensures that each bite delivers that dreamy, cheesy experience you’re craving.
Step 7: Assemble the Dish
Plate the saucy pasta and crown it with the garlic butter chicken bites. For that final flourish, sprinkle with fresh parsley if you have it, adding a bright, herbaceous note and a burst of color. Now it’s time to dig in and savor every bite of this comforting masterpiece.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil are perfect for brightening the rich flavors and making the dish visually inviting. A light dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving adds a salty finish that deepens the cheese flavor even more beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this meal with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Steamed broccoli or garlic sautéed spinach add vibrant color and nutritious contrast, cutting through the creaminess without overpowering the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual deep plates or wide bowls for that cozy, restaurant-worthy feel at home. For a fun twist, toss the chicken and pasta together before plating for a rustic, mixed presentation that shows off all those rich flavors mingling perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld together wonderfully overnight, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken bites separately for up to one month. The pasta and sauce don’t freeze as well due to the cream content, so it’s best to prepare fresh sauce when thawing the chicken.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to warm through evenly and keep that silky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully for this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. They tend to stay juicier and bring a bit more flavor, especially when cooked just right.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, penne, or any pasta with some shape or texture works great since it holds onto the creamy sauce well, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
How can I make this dish less rich?
Try substituting half-and-half or whole milk for some of the heavy cream to lighten the sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce won’t be as thick or indulgent but will still be delicious.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only if you add the optional chili flakes! Otherwise, it’s creamy and savory with just a gentle kick from black pepper and paprika, making it approachable for all palates.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can prep the chicken bites and cook the pasta in advance, but assemble and combine everything just before serving. This keeps the sauce fresh and ensures the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe that makes it a stop-you-in-your-tracks kind of meal. It’s easy enough for a simple weeknight dinner but elegant enough to share with friends and family anytime. Once you try it, I’m confident it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation too—so grab your skillet and dig in!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed in garlic butter, served over a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. This easy-to-make meal combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken Bites
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Heat Butter for Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and hot.
- Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Add Garlic Butter to Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the garlic butter, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat until melted.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in the heavy cream and add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding some reserved pasta water as needed for desired thickness.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until every strand or piece is well coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency for a silky texture.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites or breasts for leaner meat.
- Chili flakes can be omitted for a milder flavor or added for extra heat.
- Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor and texture.
- Parsley garnish adds freshness and color but is optional.
