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
Scale
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.
