Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta has quickly become a favorite in my household. The rich and flavorful combination of tender chicken bites and creamy, cheesy pasta always earns rave reviews from my family. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet comes together in just 30 minutes—a true weeknight hero! Whether served as a hearty dinner or a cozy meal for entertaining, this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Chicken Bites:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
Using the same skillet from the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce, ensuring it’s well coated. Add the chicken bites back to the skillet, mixing gently to combine. Let the dish simmer for 1 minute to meld the flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2-3
Calories: Approximately 670 per serving (based on 3 servings)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve
Plate the pasta and chicken together in shallow bowls for easy eating
Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad
Add a squeeze of lemon for a touch of brightness
Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect meal
Additional Tips
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce
Don’t overcook the chicken to ensure it remains juicy and tender
Reserve more pasta water than needed—it’s better to have extra for adjusting the sauce
For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are evenly sized
Garnish generously with parsley for added freshness and color
Recipe Variations
Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer taste
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option
Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrients
Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a bolder cheese flavor
Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences
Serving Suggestions
Garlic breadsticks or a baguette to soak up the creamy sauce
A refreshing side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, for a colorful side
A bowl of warm, hearty soup for a comforting appetizer
Grilled shrimp or scallops for a surf-and-turf variation
Freezing and Storage
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce
Freezing: Freeze the chicken bites and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve
FAQ
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but add it to the sauce only during the final steps to prevent overcooking
What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Fettuccine or penne work best, but any pasta with a good surface for holding the sauce will do
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning for extra heat
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Add a small amount of flour or cornstarch to thicken it
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent substitutes
How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Whisk continuously when adding Parmesan, and use freshly grated cheese for smoother results
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best texture
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings are gluten-free to adapt this recipe
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth in the sauce if needed
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, substitute light cream, and reduce the amount of butter and cheese
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that combines bold, comforting flavors with a touch of elegance. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, while its rich taste is ideal for entertaining. With endless variations and easy customization, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!