This recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful fusion of simplicity and decadence. Juicy, bite-sized pieces of chicken are perfectly seared in a rich garlic butter sauce, while the accompanying creamy parmesan pasta provides a luscious and flavorful sidekick. It’s a one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a straightforward preparation process, this dish is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal.
Rich in Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and creamy parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
Family-Friendly: The tender chicken and creamy pasta are loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: The recipe offers endless variations to suit dietary needs or available ingredients.
Minimal Cleanup: It’s mostly a one-pan wonder, so you’ll spend less time washing dishes.

Ingredients

Chicken breast or thigh meat
Garlic cloves
Unsalted butter
Olive oil
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Chicken broth
Fresh parsley
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Pasta of your choice

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, stirring constantly until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate the browned bits for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Cook the Pasta:
While preparing the sauce, cook your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy parmesan sauce. Toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish the Dish:
Return the chicken bites to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired, for a touch of heat.
Serve:
Dish up generous portions of the creamy parmesan pasta topped with the garlic butter chicken bites.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu for a meat-free version.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for whole-grain pasta.
Spicy Twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for more heat.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
Cheese Variations: Mix in pecorino romano or asiago cheese with the parmesan for a deeper flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken or separate the sauce.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Any pasta works well, but fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti are excellent options to hold the creamy sauce.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and melting quality, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based cream substitute, such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and skip the parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast.

Can I substitute chicken breast with thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a slightly richer flavor and remain juicy when cooked.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook garlic on medium or low heat and stir constantly to prevent it from browning too quickly.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately a day ahead. Reheat and combine them with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not ideal due to the creamy sauce, which can separate upon thawing. If needed, freeze the chicken and prepare the sauce fresh.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken naturally, or whisk in a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), or the chicken juices should run clear when cut.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your dinner table. The perfect balance of juicy chicken, velvety pasta, and robust garlic and parmesan notes makes it an unforgettable dish. Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and indulge in its mouthwatering flavors!

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