Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delicious and easy dish that will impress your family and guests. The tender chicken, flavored with garlic and butter, pairs perfectly with creamy pasta that’s rich in Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick recipe that comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal for a special occasion, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta:
- 300 g (10 oz) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Serve this dish warm. Place a generous serving of creamy pasta on a plate and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- For extra flavor, add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- You can use any type of pasta you like; choose your favorite!
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for added nutrients and taste. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or make it vegetarian by using plant-based chicken products.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter if you want a lighter option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine them with fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta
- 300 g pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the garlic butter and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.