Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of buttery garlic chicken and creamy Parmesan pasta that transforms an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy meal. The juicy, flavorful chicken bites are perfectly seared and coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the pasta is tossed in a velvety Parmesan cream that’ll have you scraping the plate.

this Recipe

I first whipped up this dish on a chilly evening, looking to create something comforting yet easy to pull together. It’s become a family favorite, loved for its quick prep and rich flavors. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try for any home cook!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s your ticket to a stress-free, crowd-pleasing meal.

First, this dish is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The buttery, garlicky chicken bites are savory and juicy, while the creamy Parmesan sauce adds richness that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

Third, it’s budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like garlic, butter, pasta, and Parmesan means you don’t have to break the bank for an indulgent meal.

Finally, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can easily swap the protein, pasta shape, or even add veggies to make it your own.

With all these perks, what’s not to love? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each component contributes to the overall harmony of the dish, so let’s break it down.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show here. When cut into bite-sized pieces and seared, they stay juicy and tender. Thighs can also be used for an extra layer of richness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that robust, aromatic flavor. You’ll use it to infuse the butter and bring a punch of garlicky goodness.
• Butter: A generous amount of unsalted butter creates the base for the garlic butter sauce, ensuring every bite is indulgent and flavorful.
• Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a creamy and savory finish.
• Heavy Cream: This forms the base of the pasta sauce, giving it that luxurious, velvety texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best, as it holds the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use your favorite shape.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness to balance the rich flavors.

Special Equipment

• A large skillet for searing the chicken and making the sauce
• A pot for boiling the pasta
• Tongs or a spatula for handling the chicken bites

How To Make This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Creating this indulgent dish is simpler than you think. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect result every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added depth. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil, and sear the chicken in batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the skillet used for the chicken, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat every piece. Serve the pasta on plates or in a large serving dish, topped with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy warm!

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying meal.

Storage Options

This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it great for meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together for easy reheating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta and chicken separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to loosen the sauce, then warm in a skillet over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a twist.
• Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a touch of heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in some mozzarella or Gruyère for an extra cheesy sauce.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. No matter how you tweak it, the result will be a comforting, flavorful meal.

Enjoy the simplicity and decadence of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen—give it a try and savor every bite!

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