Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken bites with a creamy Parmesan sauce, all served over your favorite pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with garlicky goodness and will quickly become a go-to comfort food for family dinners or date nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a dream come true for garlic lovers! The golden-brown, succulent chicken bites are cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce, and when combined with creamy Parmesan pasta, every bite is pure indulgence. The creamy sauce is the perfect complement to the tender chicken and the al dente pasta, making this dish a comforting and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Mince the garlic and cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. - Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Make the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine until a creamy sauce forms. - Cook the Pasta:
Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine or linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. - Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Stir well to combine. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like—spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta will work well with this dish.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly, as they take a bit longer than chicken breasts.
3. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan can sometimes be too dry and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese to make it dairy-free.
5. How do I make this dish spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or sprinkle some chili powder on the chicken as it cooks for extra heat.
6. How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten up the dish, use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the butter. You can also use a lighter pasta, such as whole wheat or zucchini noodles.
7. Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Yes, you can add shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different protein option.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a skillet with a little extra cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
9. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked pasta and chicken.
10. How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Be sure not to overcook the chicken. Cook it just until golden brown and no longer pink in the center to keep it juicy and tender.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is an easy, comforting dish that’s sure to impress. The garlicky chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta come together in a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining golden-brown chicken bites with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, all served over your favorite pasta. This indulgent and easy-to-make dish is bursting with garlicky goodness and will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this flavorful recipe will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
-
Mince the garlic and cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
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Cook the Chicken:
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sauté Garlic:
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
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Make the Sauce:
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Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy.
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Cook the Pasta:
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While the sauce simmers, cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
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Combine Pasta and Chicken:
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Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Stir well to combine, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
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Serve:
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Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a delicious, creamy meal.
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Notes
Add Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the sauce for more flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version: Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce in the garlic butter sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Pasta
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: American, Italian
