Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that combines juicy, golden-brown chicken with a velvety, cheesy pasta sauce. The garlic-infused butter coats the chicken in a fragrant, flavorful glaze, while the creamy Parmesan pasta balances the dish with a luscious, indulgent texture. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy, ready in under 45 minutes.
• Uses simple pantry ingredients for a budget-friendly meal.
• Packed with robust garlic, butter, and Parmesan flavors.
• Ideal for meal prep or a comforting dinner option.
• Easily customizable with different proteins or vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

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

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add the minced garlic, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
6. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
2. Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites.
3. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, salmon, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Pasta Options: Try penne, spaghetti, or gluten-free pasta.
• Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less butter.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken bites separately for up to 2 months. The sauce may separate upon thawing.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! You can use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken; just warm it in the garlic butter before serving.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all seasonings are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but store the pasta and chicken separately to prevent sogginess. Reheat with extra liquid to refresh the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add reserved pasta water in small amounts until the desired consistency is reached.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a smoother texture compared to pre-grated varieties.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes! Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Can I use other herbs?

Yes, basil, thyme, or rosemary can add an aromatic touch to the dish.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is an irresistible dish packed with flavor and easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy. Try it with different proteins, veggies, or spice levels to make it your own. Enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

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