Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garlic butter chicken bites paired with creamy Parmesan pasta is a match made in culinary heaven. Juicy, tender chicken morsels are cooked to golden perfection in a luscious garlic butter sauce, then served alongside a rich and velvety Parmesan pasta that coats every bite. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients to create complex flavors. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or feeding the whole family, this recipe combines comfort food with gourmet flair. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and uses one skillet and one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a dish bursting with flavor in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: This meal can be on your table in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Skillet Chicken: Cooking the chicken bites in one skillet simplifies the process and enhances their flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to make it your own.
• Elegant Comfort Food: Perfectly balanced between rich and hearty, this dish is suitable for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken portion with pasta

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 640
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added depth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
2. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and set aside, keeping the skillet warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Divide the creamy Parmesan pasta among plates or shallow bowls. Top each serving with the garlic butter chicken bites.
2. Garnish with additional parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their quick cooking time and tender texture. Thighs provide a juicier bite, while breasts are leaner and slightly firmer.

Garlic and Butter

The combination of garlic and butter is the heart of this recipe, delivering a rich, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with both the chicken and pasta.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for a creamy and smooth sauce. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as evenly and could result in a grainy texture.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream adds a luxurious richness to the pasta sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, half-and-half can be used, though the sauce may be less thick.

Technique Tips

• Sear the Chicken: Achieve golden, crispy edges by ensuring the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Don’t move the chicken too soon; let it sear undisturbed.
• Grate Your Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
• Control the Sauce Thickness: Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick. The starch in the water helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Avoid Overcooking Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so sauté it gently over medium heat for optimal flavor.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• One-Pan Dish: Toss the chicken bites directly into the creamy Parmesan pasta for a more cohesive presentation.
• Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• Layered Plating: Serve the pasta in a nest shape with the chicken bites piled in the center for a restaurant-style presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Timing Is Key: Start the chicken while the pasta water is heating to streamline the cooking process.
• Serve Fresh: This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture of the sauce.
• Balance the Salt: Adjust seasoning as you go, keeping in mind the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Delight: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a different herbaceous flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter dish.
• Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for a unique twist on the classic Parmesan sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

Freezing

Freeze the garlic butter chicken bites and Parmesan sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Olive Oil: Swap half of the butter for olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Lighter Cream: Use evaporated milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lower-calorie sauce.
• Whole-Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole-wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Date Night: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for a romantic evening.
• Casual Gatherings: Serve the chicken bites as an appetizer and the pasta as the main course to please a crowd.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing the chicken and making the garlic butter sauce.
• Saucepan: Perfect for preparing the creamy Parmesan sauce without scorching.
• Tongs: Handy for tossing pasta in the sauce and plating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but the flavor may not be as rich. Simply warm the chicken in the garlic butter sauce before serving.

2. Can I use milk instead of cream?

Milk can be used, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to help thicken it.

3. What other pasta shapes work well?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle can hold the sauce well and add a different texture.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Gradually whisk the Parmesan into the hot cream, ensuring it melts evenly. Avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese to separate.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure any seasonings are certified gluten-free.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger skillet for the chicken and a big pot for the pasta to handle the increased volume.

7. How do I keep the chicken moist?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by removing it from the skillet as soon as it’s golden brown and cooked through.

8. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta is a dish that delivers both comfort and sophistication. The tender, flavorful chicken and rich, velvety pasta come together to create a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it tonight and experience the magic of this irresistible pairing!

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