Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta A Delicious and Easy Recipe

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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is perfect for you! With juicy, golden brown chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with creamy, cheesy Parmesan pasta, this dish is a dream for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

What makes this recipe a favorite?

Easy to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for any skill level.
Loaded with flavor: The garlic butter chicken pairs beautifully with the rich and creamy Parmesan sauce.
Customizable: You can add vegetables, different cheeses, or spices to make it your own.
One-pan efficiency: Minimal cleanup while still delivering restaurant-quality flavors.

Now, let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need!

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (to help adjust sauce consistency)

Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to cooking the garlic butter chicken bites!

garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta

Preparing the Chicken

Cooking the garlic butter chicken bites is the first step in creating this irresistible dish. The key to perfectly cooked chicken is seasoning well and not overcooking it. Let’s dive into the process step by step.

Step 1 Seasoning the Chicken

  1. Prepare the chicken:

    • Start by cutting 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).
    • Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel this helps the seasonings stick better and ensures the chicken browns nicely.

  2. Season generously:

    • In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites with:
      • 1 teaspoon salt
      • ½ teaspoon black pepper
      • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky depth)
      • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (for a herby touch)
    • Mix until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated.

Pro Tip: For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken in the seasonings and a tablespoon of olive oil for 15-30 minutes if you have time. This adds deeper flavor and moisture.

 Step 2 Cooking the Chicken Bites in Garlic Butter

  1. Heat the pan:

    • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. This prevents the butter from burning while giving the chicken a crisp exterior.

  2. Sear the chicken:

    • Add the seasoned chicken bites to the hot pan in a single layer avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
    • Sear for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them to get a golden-brown crust.

  3. Flip and add butter:

    • Flip the chicken pieces and add 3 tablespoons unsalted butter to the pan.
    • Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat).

  4. Finish cooking:

    • Cook for 3-4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
    • Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside, keeping the flavorful garlic butter in the pan for the pasta.

Pro Tip: For extra garlic flavor, let the garlic cook gently in the butter as the chicken finishes cooking—be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic tastes bitter.

Now that our garlic butter chicken bites are golden and delicious, it’s time to move on to the next step: making the creamy Parmesan pasta.

 Making the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

The creamy Parmesan pasta is the perfect companion to your garlic butter chicken bites. This rich, velvety sauce clings to every strand of pasta, offering a decadent bite each time. Follow these easy steps to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.

 Step 1 Cooking the Pasta

  1. Boil the water:

    • Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
    • Add 1 tablespoon of salt this seasons the pasta from the inside and enhances the overall flavor.

  2. Cook the pasta:

    • Add 8 oz of fettuccine or spaghetti (or your favorite pasta) to the boiling water.
    • Cook according to the package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente (firm to the bite).

  3. Reserve pasta water:

    • Before draining the pasta, save ½ cup of pasta water you’ll use it later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
    • Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking, especially when using long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine.

Step 2 Preparing the Parmesan Cream Sauce

  1. Use the same pan:

    • In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
    • Allow the leftover garlic butter from the chicken to mix with the butter it intensifies the sauce’s flavor.

  2. Sauté the garlic:

    • Add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    • Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can create a bitter taste.

  3. Add the cream:

    • Pour in 1½ cups of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the garlic butter.
    • Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the cream to warm and thicken slightly.

  4. Incorporate the Parmesan:

    • Gradually stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
    • Continue stirring until the cheese melts fully, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.

  5. Season the sauce:

    • Add:
      • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
      • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for a mild kick)
      • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional  adds warmth and depth)

  6. Adjust consistency:

    • If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water (a few tablespoons at a time) until you reach your desired texture.

Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese pre-packaged versions often contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Step 3 Combining the Pasta with the Sauce

  1. Add pasta to the sauce:

    • Toss the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
    • Use tongs or a spatula to mix gently, ensuring each strand is coated in the luscious sauce.

  2. Simmer briefly:

    • Let the pasta sit in the sauce over low heat for 1-2 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

Pro Tip: If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, loosen it with a bit more reserved pasta water until it’s silky again.

With your creamy Parmesan pasta ready, it’s time to bring everything together with the garlic butter chicken bites!

Step 1 Combining the Chicken with the Pasta

  1. Add the chicken to the pasta:

    • Gently place the garlic butter chicken bites into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan pasta.
    • Stir gently to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

  2. Incorporate the garlic butter:

    • Pour any remaining garlic butter from the chicken pan into the pasta. This adds an extra layer of richness and enhances the garlic flavor.

  3. Adjust if needed:

    • If the pasta seems too thick, add a little more of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
    • Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a crispier texture, keep a few chicken bites aside and place them on top of the plated pasta as a garnish.

Step 2 Garnishing for Extra Flavor

  1. Fresh herbs:

    • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.

  2. Extra cheese:

    • Grate a bit more Parmesan cheese on top for an irresistible cheesy finish.

  3. Optional touches:

    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
    • Drizzle a touch of lemon juice for brightness if you enjoy a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.

Your garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta are now ready to serve! Let’s explore the best ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

 Tips for the Best Results

For a flawless cooking experience, follow these expert tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

 Cooking Tips

  1. Don’t overcrowd the pan:

    • When cooking chicken, work in batches if needed to ensure even browning. Overcrowding causes the chicken to steam rather than sear.

  2. Low heat for the sauce:

    • Keep the heat on low when making the Parmesan sauce to prevent the cream from curdling or the cheese from clumping.

  3. Use freshly grated Parmesan:

    • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

  1. Chicken alternatives:

    • Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful bite.

  2. Cheese options:

    • Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly sharper flavor.

  3. Add vegetables:

    • Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to add nutrition and texture.

 Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but the right sides and beverages can elevate your dining experience.

Best Side Dishes

  1. Garlic Bread:

    • A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

  2. Simple Salad:

    • Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

  3. Steamed Vegetables:

    • Lightly steamed broccoli or asparagus add a healthy touch without overpowering the main dish.

 Wine Pairings and Presentation Tips

  1. Wine pairing:

    • A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy, garlicky flavors.

  2. Presentation:

    • Serve in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic presentation and top with extra cheese and herbs for a polished finish.

 Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to store and reheat them while keeping everything fresh and delicious.

 How to Store Leftovers

  1. Refrigeration:

    • Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

  2. Freezing:

    • While the pasta may lose some creaminess, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container for best results.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

  1. Stovetop method:

    • Warm leftovers in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

  2. Microwave method:

    • Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a bit of cream if needed.

garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta

 Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta (based on four servings).

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 750 kcal
Protein 45 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Fat 40 g
Saturated Fat 22 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 780 mg
Calcium 320 mg

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking the chicken:

    • Remove the chicken from the heat once it reaches 165°F (75°C) to prevent dryness.

      FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful just adjust cooking time slightly since they take longer to cook through.

 How do I make it gluten free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free of gluten.

 Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

 What other cheeses can I use?

Try Asiago, Gruyère, or Pecorino Romano for a delicious twist on the classic Parmesan sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and stir constantly while adding the cheese slowly. Avoid rapid boiling.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, though the sauce may slightly separate upon reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

 Conclusion

This garlic butter chicken bites with creamy Parmesan pasta recipe is a crowd pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. The combination of juicy chicken, rich Parmesan sauce, and tender pasta is irresistibly comforting.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises to deliver a delicious and satisfying meal every time. So, roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to this indulgent homemade masterpieceyour taste buds will thank you!

Bon appétit!

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