There’s something incredibly comforting about creamy pasta paired with tender chicken bites. This recipe is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: rich garlic butter, velvety Parmesan sauce, and perfectly seared chicken bites. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes.
This recipe is inspired by those moments when you crave indulgence, but without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and boasts a versatility that allows you to tweak it to your preferences. From family gatherings to date night, this dish fits every occasion. Let’s dive in and bring these flavors to life!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: The garlic butter chicken and creamy Parmesan sauce create an irresistible combination.
- Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A dish everyone will rave about, from kids to adults.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken in the hot skillet, ensuring they don’t overlap, for an even sear. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the butter sauce to coat evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, letting its aroma fill your kitchen.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is silky and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the Parmesan sauce, ensuring every strand is well-coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan pasta. Top with the garlic butter chicken bites and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and savor the rich, comforting flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Control the Sauce Consistency: Keep some pasta water handy to adjust the thickness of the sauce if needed.
- Upgrade the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes into the pasta sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Keep It Warm: If you’re serving later, keep the pasta and chicken warm in separate dishes and combine just before serving.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian option available (replace chicken with roasted vegetables).
Notes
- Make this dish gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free options.
2. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Simmer the sauce gently and avoid boiling it. Whisking continuously as you add the Parmesan cheese also helps create a smooth consistency.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken bites and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, you’ll enjoy these other comforting dishes:
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a hug on a plate. From the first bite of tender chicken to the last twirl of pasta drenched in a luscious sauce, every element sings of comfort and indulgence. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to delight.
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Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Parmesan Pasta
Description
There’s something incredibly comforting about creamy pasta paired with tender chicken bites. This recipe is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors: rich garlic butter, velvety Parmesan sauce, and perfectly seared chicken bites. Whether you’re whipping this up for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes.
This recipe is inspired by those moments when you crave indulgence, but without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and boasts a versatility that allows you to tweak it to your preferences. From family gatherings to date night, this dish fits every occasion. Let’s dive in and bring these flavors to life!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken in the hot skillet, ensuring they don’t overlap, for an even sear. Cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the butter sauce to coat evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, letting its aroma fill your kitchen.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is silky and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the cooked pasta into the Parmesan sauce, ensuring every strand is well-coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan pasta. Top with the garlic butter chicken bites and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and savor the rich, comforting flavors.
Notes
- Make this dish gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.