Easy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying dinner that will make everyone at the table smile, look no further! These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are everything you could ever want in a meal – rich, flavorful, and comforting. Not only are they delicious, but this recipe is also perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself to a little something special, this dish has all the winning ingredients: juicy chicken bites, a savory garlic butter sauce, and creamy parmesan pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s sure to be a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is an absolute game-changer when it comes to easy weeknight dinners. With tender, juicy chicken bites coated in a garlic butter sauce and served over a luscious creamy parmesan pasta, it hits all the right notes for a satisfying meal. It’s hearty, yet not overly heavy, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special treat.

It’s a meal that’s simple to whip up, full of bold flavors, and totally customizable based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike – making it one of those go-to recipes that you’ll find yourself making again and again.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

The key to what makes this recipe stand out is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The garlic butter chicken is tender and flavorful, and the creamy parmesan pasta adds a touch of richness without feeling too heavy. It’s a comforting dish that doesn’t take hours to prepare, making it ideal for a quick family meal or even a cozy date night in.

The real magic happens when you combine the chicken with the pasta – the garlic butter drips down into the pasta, creating a dreamy sauce that clings to each strand. It’s truly the ultimate indulgence in a single dish!

Ingredients

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For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Parmesan Pasta:

• 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, as you’ll use it to adjust the consistency of the sauce later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Bites
Season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken in the garlicky butter. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy parmesan sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a bit of herbal flavor. Plate the pasta, then top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with extra parsley and parmesan, and serve immediately.

Tips for Best Results

• Choose the right pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work wonderfully with this creamy sauce, but feel free to use whatever pasta you prefer.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly, so freshly grated cheese will give your sauce a much creamier texture.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it will become dry. Cook it until it’s just golden brown and juicy on the inside.
• Adjust the sauce: If your sauce gets too thick, simply add a little pasta water or extra cream to loosen it up.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Chicken: You can substitute the chicken with other proteins like shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Pasta: Feel free to use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

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This dish is rich and filling, so it pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Here are a few ideas to complement your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
• Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a fresh baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: For added nutrition and color, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky flavors of this dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken bites and creamy sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the components and toss them with freshly cooked pasta.
• Freezing: Freezing isn’t ideal for the creamy sauce as it may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken bites separately for up to 1 month. Just make sure to add some extra cream or milk when reheating to bring the sauce back to life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overheating the chicken: This can dry out the chicken. Cook it until it’s just golden brown and cooked through.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated parmesan can result in a gritty sauce. Always go for freshly grated parmesan for a smoother, creamier finish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to follow the pasta package instructions and don’t overcook it, or it will become mushy in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just store the components separately and combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, opt for whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, and reduce the butter to make it a bit lighter.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli will make the dish even more wholesome.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cheese grater (for fresh parmesan)
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl (for seasoning chicken)

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