Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect combination of juicy, bite-sized pieces of chicken enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with a luscious creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s a quick and easy meal, making it ideal for weeknights, yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. The balance of flavors—garlic, butter, Parmesan, and tender chicken—creates a comforting and indulgent dish that will satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Pasta of choice (linguine, fettuccine, or penne)
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Chicken broth or pasta water
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic, stirring well to coat the chicken.
5. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a little more butter and pour in the heavy cream.
2. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Return the chicken bites to the skillet and mix everything together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding red pepper flakes for extra heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan before serving.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Try shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a different take.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the flavor.
• Cheese Twist: Use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat or chickpea pasta, reduce the butter, and swap heavy cream for a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt or half-and-half.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then simply cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Linguine, fettuccine, or penne work best as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Simply add it to the garlic butter sauce and heat through before combining with the pasta.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the meal well.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. To thicken it, add a bit of cornstarch slurry.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Gradually add reserved pasta water or chicken broth while tossing the pasta.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for even browning and better texture.

How do I make it extra garlicky?

Double the garlic and roast some whole cloves to mix into the sauce.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta or a grain-free alternative like spiralized vegetables.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delightful meal that brings together rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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