Introduction
Few dishes strike the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence quite like Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken bites infused with aromatic garlic butter and a rich, creamy parmesan pasta that melts in your mouth. It’s a quick and easy recipe that works for busy weeknights while still feeling like an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal.
This recipe is packed with bold flavors and is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making it for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or even impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let’s break it down step by step so you can bring this delicious meal to your table.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 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 red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
The key to achieving perfectly cooked chicken bites is to sear them in a hot pan to lock in moisture and develop a beautiful golden crust.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, then season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to low and add butter and minced garlic to the pan.
- Stir well, ensuring the chicken is fully coated in the garlic butter.
- Once fragrant (about 1-2 minutes), remove the skillet from heat and set the chicken aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
The creamy parmesan sauce ties everything together, providing a rich, velvety texture to the pasta.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat each strand evenly.
- Return the garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet and mix well.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese for an added touch of freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread makes an excellent companion to this dish.
- With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad to balance the richness.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Variations & Customizations
This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing for various adaptations based on dietary needs and preferences.
1. Protein Variations:
- Swap Chicken for Shrimp: If you’re a seafood lover, replace the chicken with shrimp for a garlicky seafood twist.
- Use Salmon or Tofu: For a healthier option, pan-seared salmon or tofu cubes can be substituted.
2. Dairy-Free Version:
- Use full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream.
- Replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
4. Extra Spicy Kick:
- Add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
How to Reheat:
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.
- Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlicky, buttery chicken with the luscious parmesan sauce creates a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.
Try this recipe today and enjoy every bite of this irresistible, restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
