Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan pasta creates a mouthwatering dish.

• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy, ensuring a happy table.

• Versatile: Can be customized with your choice of pasta and additional ingredients like vegetables or herbs.

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix in the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce. Top with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy twist.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, as it may separate upon thawing.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful option.

Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a smoother sauce compared to pre-grated cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, spaghetti, or any pasta of your choice can be used.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

For a low-carb version, consider substituting traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce to introduce a spicy element.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, using half-and-half will result in a lighter sauce, though it may not be as thick as the cream version.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze the creamy pasta since the sauce may separate upon thawing. However, the chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What can I pair this dish with?

A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad complements this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a decadent and satisfying dish that’s ideal for both cozy weeknights and special dinners. With its buttery garlic chicken and rich Parmesan sauce, this meal offers comfort in every bite. Whether you stick to the original recipe or explore its many variations, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.