If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s quick, flavorful, and easy to make, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for you! The juicy, golden-brown chicken bites are packed with garlicky butter flavor, while the creamy parmesan pasta provides the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
What makes this dish even better? It’s ready in under 30 minutes and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. So, let’s dive into how you can make this delicious meal today!
Ingredients Required
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir well and cook for 1-2 more minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Making the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Sauce
- In the same pan used for the chicken, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Add parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Combining Chicken and Pasta for a Perfect Dish
- Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Add the garlic butter chicken bites back into the pan, mixing gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor for this dish. Avoid garlic powder.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a nice golden crust.
- Let the butter melt gradually: This prevents burning and enhances the garlic aroma.
Variations and Substitutions
- Keto Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Pasta
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed vegetables
- White wine or a refreshing lemonade
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.
Health Benefits of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Garlic: Boosts immunity and improves heart health.
- Parmesan Cheese: Rich in protein and calcium.
- Chicken: High in protein, keeping you full longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use olive oil instead of butter and replace heavy cream with coconut cream.
2. Can I use other pasta types?
Yes! This recipe works well with spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
3. What’s the best way to make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. How do I make this dish ahead of time?
Cook the pasta and chicken separately, then combine and heat before serving.
5. Can I cook the chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make at home? Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken and rich, creamy pasta. This dish is loaded with garlic, butter, and parmesan flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The best part? It’s super simple to make in just 30 minutes! Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for an unforgettable dinner.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously.
- Add parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
- Add the garlic butter chicken bites back into the pan, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, so avoid using garlic powder.
- Cook chicken in batches: Overcrowding the pan can make the chicken steam instead of sear.
- Adjust the sauce: If the sauce gets too thick, add a little more broth or reserved pasta water.
- Spice it up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes