Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are a delicious combination that’s sure to please everyone! Juicy chicken bites cooked in buttery garlic sauce, served over creamy pasta makes for a hearty meal.
What’s not to love about crispy chicken and cheesy pasta? I usually double the garlic—I can’t resist that flavor! It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for satisfying cravings while keeping dinner fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. You can substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version!
Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or vegan butter makes a good alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for a robust flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. I love using a bit more garlic for that extra kick!
Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are great choices, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. It won’t change the flavor much!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a combination of milk and cream. For a vegan alternative, coconut cream works surprisingly well.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chicken Bites?
Cooking chicken bites to perfection involves a few simple steps. First, make sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Seasoning is also crucial—don’t skip the salt and pepper!
- Heat the skillet well before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to keep it juicy.
What’s the Key to a Creamy Pasta Sauce?
Creating a creamy pasta sauce is all about the timing and temperature. Start by gently simmering the heavy cream; don’t let it boil too hard or it can separate!
- Once you add the cheese, stir constantly until it melts to prevent clumping.
- If the sauce gets too thick, simply add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant heat!
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For The Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 25-30 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and about 15 minutes preparing the creamy sauce. A quick, satisfying meal that packs a lot of flavor in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Create the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss well to coat it in the delicious garlic butter. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and cover to keep the chicken warm.
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In another large pan (or you can clean the same skillet), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Now, season with salt, pepper, and, if desired, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Finally, add the cooked pasta directly into the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Serve It Up:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that lovely touch! Serve warm and enjoy this wonderful meal with your favorite people!
Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine, linguine, and penne work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, including whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream works well and adds a subtle sweetness to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prepare the chicken and the creamy sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything for a quick and delicious meal!
