These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Tender, juicy chicken bites are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, then paired with a creamy parmesan pasta that’s full of flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying and delicious dinner that the whole family will love. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken Bites
- In a medium bowl, season the chicken bites with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken bites and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- In a separate skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Serve the creamy parmesan pasta on plates, topped with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Pasta Choice: Fettuccine, penne, or any sturdy pasta works well for this dish, as it holds the sauce nicely.
- Cooking Chicken: Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken bites. Cook them in batches if needed to get a nice golden crust.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up until it’s smooth and creamy.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Addition: Stir in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta for added color and flavor.
- Cheese Variation: Substitute half of the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be slightly less rich. You may need to add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken it.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The tender chicken bites, rich garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan sauce come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad, and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked dinner that’s sure to impress!
