Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

A Delicious and Comforting Meal

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for those who crave a flavorful, rich, and satisfying meal. The combination of juicy, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a fragrant garlic butter sauce and a luscious parmesan-infused pasta makes this dish a favorite for weeknights or special occasions. It’s quick to prepare, requiring simple ingredients that come together for a restaurant-quality experience right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce elevates the chicken, while the creamy parmesan pasta provides a comforting base.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different pasta shapes, cheeses, or added vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Add the minced garlic and remaining butter, stirring well for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Finish with a splash of lemon juice and remove from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and set aside.

2. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Lower the heat and gradually stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
6. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

3. Assemble the Dish:

1. Plate the creamy parmesan pasta and top with garlic butter chicken bites.
2. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.
• Cheese Options: Use a mix of parmesan and pecorino romano for a bolder taste.

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: Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent my chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Removing it from the heat once fully cooked keeps it tender and juicy.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for the pasta sauce?

Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy. For a thicker consistency, mix in a little cornstarch slurry.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti work best as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and broth are gluten-free.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute along with nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

What other seasonings can I use for the chicken?

Try smoked paprika, cajun seasoning, or even a dash of curry powder for a unique twist.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. The pasta is best served fresh but can be stored and reheated.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer a bit longer, add more parmesan, or mix in a cornstarch slurry.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this creamy pasta dish.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With tender, flavorful chicken and a creamy, cheesy pasta base, it’s a meal that will impress family and guests alike. Enjoy this easy-to-make comfort food and customize it to suit your taste!

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