Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish is all about juicy chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served with creamy parmesan pasta. It’s comfort food at its best, and so easy to whip up!

Honestly, who can resist garlic butter? 😍 I love mixing those flavorful chicken bites with creamy pasta. It’s just pure happiness on a plate! Get ready for seconds!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I love using boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work great too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey pieces can also be delicious!

Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the seasoning, but if you only have salted, just adjust the salt in the recipe. For a dairy-free version, try using plant-based butter or olive oil.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor. If you’re out, you can use garlic powder, but you’ll need less (about 1/8 tsp for each clove). The flavor won’t be as robust, though!

Pasta: I recommend fettuccine for its thick texture, but any pasta shape will work, like penne or even gluten-free options if needed. Spiralized veggies can make a great low-carb alternative!

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is superior for melting, but pre-grated works in a pinch. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor substitute.

How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Packed with Flavor?

Cooking chicken bites can be tricky, but here’s my secret for juicy, flavorful chicken:

• Cut the chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
• Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken so it sears nicely. This creates a beautiful crust.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed to ensure proper browning. This helps the chicken stay juicy!

Don’t forget to toss the cooked chicken in the garlic butter sauce right after it’s done. This step adds an incredible punch of flavor!

What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Pasta Sauce?

Creating a creamy sauce can be easy if you follow these tips:

• Start with melted butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. This is key for flavor!
• When you add the heavy cream, keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
• Add the cheese gradually and whisk well until melted. If the sauce gets too thick, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess.

Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings at the end—your personal touch makes all the difference!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for mild smoky flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll enjoy the wonderful smell of garlic and butter filling your kitchen while you whip up this comforting meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the chicken bites:

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Make sure each piece gets a nice coating!

3. Cook the chicken:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter. Once hot, add the chicken bites and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Make garlic butter sauce for the chicken:

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium, then add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant (but don’t let it burn!). Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the delicious garlic butter sauce. Remove from heat.

5. Make the creamy Parmesan sauce:

Now, in a separate saucepan (or the same skillet wiped clean!), melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Now pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer.

6. Add cheese and season:

Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese until your sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. If your sauce thickens too much, just add a little reserved pasta water until it’s the right consistency.

7. Combine pasta and sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss well to coat all the noodles evenly.

8. Serve:

Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta beautifully and top it with your garlic butter chicken bites. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Enjoy your rich, flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!

FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first! To do this quickly, submerge sealed chicken in cold water or leave it in the fridge overnight. Pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Just make sure to add the milk slowly and stir well to maintain a smooth consistency.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to bring back the sauce’s creaminess!

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or cauliflower, and you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce. Crumbled tofu or chickpeas can also be great protein additions!