If you are searching for a dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and a delightful garlic punch, the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe will quickly become one of your top favorites. This mouthwatering meal brings tender chicken bites coated in a luscious butter-garlic sauce, perfectly tossed with al dente pasta and a touch of Parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food elevated to an easy, elegant weeknight dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, classic ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver incredible taste and texture. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the rich flavor profile and satisfying feel of this meal.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Tender chicken cut into bite-sized pieces ensures quick cooking and perfect bites every time.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken and pasta.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky warmth and gorgeous color to the chicken.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides a healthy fat base for browning the chicken beautifully.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and depth to both the chicken sauté and creamy sauce.
Minced garlic (4 cloves): Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory goodness that’s simply irresistible.
Pasta (8 ounces): Penne or fettuccine work great to soak up the creamy sauce, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the silky, luscious sauce that coats every morsel.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty kick that enriches the creamy sauce.
Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a blend of herbs to complement the garlic and butter flavors.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Offers a gentle heat for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, green brightness as a finishing touch and garnish.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Salted water is the secret to perfectly seasoned pasta. Cook your choice of penne or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente — tender yet with a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Chicken Bites

Season the bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika to build layers of flavor. Heat olive oil and half of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, so each piece turns golden brown and is cooked through—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until the smell fills your kitchen — the hallmark of any good garlic butter chicken dish. Then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little zing. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta with the Sauce

Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly so every pasta strand and chicken piece is coated with the creamy, garlicky sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to meld flavors and ensure everything is heated through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Now your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe is ready to impress — serve it hot and watch everyone dig in with delight!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish here, adding just the right herbal lift to cut through the richness. You can also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan or a few more red pepper flakes if you want to amplify the flavor profile. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a subtly fruity finish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, which add crunch and balance the creamy richness. A fresh green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette also complements and brightens the plate beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the creamy pasta in warm individual bowls topped with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge for brightness. You could also plate the chicken bites separately on skewers with the pasta alongside for a stylish twist. Offering crusty garlic bread on the side invites your guests to scoop up every last bit of silky sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge but reheats beautifully with a splash of cream or milk to loosen it back up.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, though the texture of the pasta may change slightly. To freeze, cool it completely and transfer into a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little cream, milk, or broth if needed to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between, so it heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne and fettuccine are recommended because they hold the sauce well, you can easily substitute with linguine, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just cook according to package directions.

Is there a lighter substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less thick and creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work but will alter the flavor.

Can this recipe be made with other proteins?

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe works wonderfully with shrimp or turkey. Adjust cooking times accordingly so shrimp are just opaque and turkey bites are fully cooked without drying out.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that enhances the rich flavors without overpowering them. You can easily omit them if you prefer no heat or increase the amount for more spice.

What is the best way to store leftovers to maintain flavor?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and consume within 3 days for the best texture and taste. Reheat gently with added cream or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Its combination of savory garlic butter, tender chicken, and rich creamy pasta creates a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. Give this recipe a try tonight and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved classic in your dinner rotation.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta Recipe

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4.2 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make main course featuring tender, seasoned chicken cooked in garlic butter and tossed with a creamy Parmesan pasta sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe combines savory chicken bites, rich cream sauce, and pasta cooked to al dente, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

Sauce and Pasta

4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (remaining for sauce)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken bites with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Finish Cooking: Cook for another 1–2 minutes to heat everything through.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately for a warm, comforting meal.