If you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm, comforting hug, then you have to try this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect match of tender, garlicky chicken bites swimming in a rich, velvety parmesan cream sauce tossed lovingly with pasta. This dish is straightforward yet decadent, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the stress. Every bite delivers a symphony of buttery garlic flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe — each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the fresh garlic that infuses the dish with aroma to the creamy parmesan that adds richness, these ingredients are essential to achieving pasta perfection.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that brings irresistible aroma and a savory punch.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds luscious richness and helps marry the flavors together smoothly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simply essential for balancing and enhancing every taste element.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine: Pasta shapes that hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Provides nutty, salty depth and thickens the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The secret to a silky, indulgent sauce that envelops each piece of pasta and chicken.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you get cooking, mince the garlic and cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Prepping these ingredients ahead will keep your cooking process smooth and efficient.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken bites in a single layer and cook until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in the juiciness while developing beautiful color and flavor.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and season with salt and pepper. Sauté everything together for about a minute, until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to soften. This creates that heavenly garlic butter base that’s impossible to resist.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Next, pour in the heavy cream and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir vigorously as you sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the cream, building a luscious, creamy sauce that beautifully coats the chicken bites.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your choice of fettuccine or linguine until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water — this starchy water will help loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Toss everything together with care, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick. This ensures every noodle gets coated in that silky garlic Parmesan goodness.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and subtle herbaceous notes that contrast beautifully with the richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. The freshness and crunch add balance and make the meal feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, plate the pasta in twirls using a fork and a ladle, then nestle the chicken bites on top. Drizzle a little extra melted butter infused with garlic around the edge for that restaurant-worthy look that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta stay flavorful and creamy, ready to enjoy when reheated gently.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the pasta might soften slightly. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, and be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving at too high a temperature, so you keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a slightly richer flavor and stay juicy, though cooking times may vary slightly. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little flour to thicken, but heavy cream yields the best texture and richness for this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and chicken remain just as delicious without gluten.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an added kick that complements the creaminess perfectly.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can cut the chicken and mince garlic in advance to save time. Cooked chicken and pasta can also be reheated, but the sauce is best made fresh for optimal creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is like treating yourself to a cozy and indulgent meal that never disappoints. It’s simple, flavorful, and so satisfying. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to comfort food. Happy cooking!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe features tender chicken pieces sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, combined with a luscious creamy parmesan pasta. Ready in just 25 minutes, this comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Mince the garlic cloves and cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, then season the mixture with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant to infuse the chicken with flavor.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese and gently stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a small amount of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce thickness. Mix everything well and garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
- If you prefer spicier notes, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color and added freshness.
