Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines tender, flavorful garlic butter chicken bites with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal. The garlic butter-infused chicken provides a robust, savory taste, while the pasta offers a luscious, cheesy sauce that perfectly complements the dish. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Pasta of choice (linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well)
• Fresh parsley
• Lemon juice

Directions

Preparing the Chicken Bites

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Making the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

5. In the same skillet, add a bit more butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
6. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
8. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
9. Add the drained pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
10. Return the garlic butter chicken to the skillet, tossing it with the pasta to warm through.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in extra cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for a cheesier sauce.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months, but the creamy pasta sauce may change texture when thawed.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid separation.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water, broth, or a bit of milk to loosen it.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but for the best flavor, briefly sauté it in garlic butter before adding it to the pasta.

What pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work well, but any pasta of your choice will do.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the chicken and sauce separately and combine when reheating.

What’s the best way to season the chicken?

A mix of salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning ensures a flavorful result.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be less rich. You can thicken it with a bit of flour or cornstarch if needed.

How do I make the sauce extra creamy?

Add more Parmesan cheese and a small amount of cream cheese for a thicker texture.

Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of dry white wine enhances the flavor before adding the broth and cream.

How do I keep the chicken tender?

Avoid overcooking and let it rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the pasta.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! You can omit red pepper flakes for a milder taste.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect comfort meal that combines rich, garlicky flavors with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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