Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The juicy, golden-browned chicken bites are perfectly seasoned and served over a rich and creamy parmesan pasta that’s irresistibly comforting. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or a special meal to impress family and friends.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Chicken Bites
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from cooking pasta)
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. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken Bites
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned 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, reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then squeeze in the lemon juice. Stir well, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
In a separate large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with the reserved pasta cooking water. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta on plates, topped with the golden garlic chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!
Cook Notes
- Chicken Cooking Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken bites. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a nice golden crust.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta cooking water helps loosen the sauce and adds extra flavor. Add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Parmesan Cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan can sometimes lead to a grainy texture.
Variations
1. Spicy Chicken Bites
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning for a spicy kick.
2. Mushroom Parmesan Pasta
Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the pasta sauce, cooking them with the garlic before adding the cream, for an earthy twist.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken Pasta
Add 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or oregano to the chicken bites for a fresh herbaceous flavor that complements the lemon.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread to soak up the creamy pasta sauce and garlic butter.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can make the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta separately, then combine and reheat just before serving for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken bites and pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape will work—fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even linguine are all great options.
Golden Garlic Chicken Bites over Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With tender, golden chicken bites and a creamy, cheesy pasta, this meal is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of restaurant-quality dining right in your own home!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
