Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Introduction

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, buttery flavors and hearty comfort food. This dish features tender, seasoned chicken bites seared to perfection in a luscious garlic butter sauce, served over a creamy, cheesy parmesan pasta. The combination of juicy chicken and velvety pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Irresistibly Flavorful – The garlic butter sauce enhances the juicy chicken, while the creamy parmesan pasta adds richness.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different seasonings, proteins, or pasta types.
• Family-Friendly – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed to adjust sauce consistency)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken Bites

1. In a medium bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Reduce heat to low and add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and chopped parsley. Toss to coat the chicken in the garlic butter sauce.
6. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

4. Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Top with the garlic butter chicken bites and gently mix.
3. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Protein Swap – Try shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Pasta Options – Use spaghetti, linguine, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
• Extra Vegetables – Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

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

Reheating:

• Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken bites juicy?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by cooking it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a combination of butter and olive oil also helps retain moisture.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Fettuccine and penne work well, but any pasta that holds sauce will do.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain the best texture.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, and reduce the cheese slightly.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While you can freeze it, the cream sauce may separate when reheating. If freezing, reheat slowly with added cream or milk to restore the texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great side options.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time so the pre-cooked chicken doesn’t dry out when reheating in the garlic butter sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Add more Parmesan cheese or simmer it longer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for the family or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this recipe delivers every time. Try it today and enjoy the comforting combination of tender chicken and creamy pasta!

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