If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it brings together tender, golden chicken bites sautéed in rich garlic butter alongside a luscious, velvety Parmesan pasta that clings perfectly to every forkful. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the deep, comforting flavors, making this recipe a fantastic choice whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself to something extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe plays an essential role. From the creamy Parmesan that creates the sauce’s indulgent texture to the fresh garlic that adds aromatic depth, these simple yet carefully chosen items come together for a harmonious and satisfying dish.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and remain tender and juicy.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used initially to sauté the chicken, it adds richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic but crucial seasonings that enhance every flavor.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine: These pasta types are perfect for holding the creamy sauce on their broad surface.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The foundation of the creamy sauce, bringing lusciousness and smoothness.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds the irresistible nutty and savory flavor that defines this dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Additional butter enriches the sauce further for that luxurious finish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant and bold flavor.
- Reserved pasta water: Contains starch that helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta while adjusting consistency.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by mincing the garlic and cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Grate the Parmesan cheese and chop fresh parsley if you’re using it. Having these ready streamlines your cooking process and ensures each component is perfectly fresh.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or linguine until al dente according to the package instructions. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining to use later in the sauce. This small step is key for achieving a sauce that clings beautifully without being too thick.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté them until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in juiciness and builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 4: Add the Garlic
Stir the minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken and cook for about one minute just until fragrant. The garlic’s aroma will instantly lift the flavor of the chicken, adding that signature taste we all love in this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together and then incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky and smooth. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious pasta sauce.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the chicken and cream sauce. Toss gently, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce coats every strand and bite perfectly. This technique ensures the dish is neither dry nor overly thick, just wonderfully creamy.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh contrast in flavor and color, then serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, giving the dish a vibrant pop of green and a mild herbal note. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider sprinkling some extra Parmesan on top just before serving. A twist of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spicy warmth that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, such as a simple arugula or mixed greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also make excellent companions, adding texture and freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the glossy sauce and tender chicken bites. You might also plate individual portions on a large platter garnished with parsley sprigs to make a beautiful centerpiece when entertaining. Adding lemon wedges on the side offers guests the option of a zesty brightness if they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy pasta may thicken as it chills, so it’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary. Store portions in freezer-safe containers and try to consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid separating the creamy sauce.
Reheating
Rewarm leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and bring back its silky texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat to keep the sauce smooth and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine are traditional choices, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and remember that pasta shape affects how the sauce clings.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese. The flavor will shift slightly but remain rich and delicious.
How can I make the chicken extra flavorful?
Marinating the chicken briefly in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking enhances the flavor profile. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken browns nicely, adding depth of taste.
What can I use instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic is best for its vibrant zing, you can use garlic powder or jarred minced garlic in a pinch. Just reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is straightforward. Just keep the same proportions and use a bigger pan or cook in batches to maintain the best texture and flavor balance.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is truly one of those dishes that delights every time, with its perfect balance of creamy, buttery goodness and savory chicken bites. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a wonderful way to bring comfort and joy to your table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken bites sautéed in garlic butter with a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Reserved pasta water (about 1/2 cup)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Mince the garlic, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, grate the Parmesan cheese, and chop fresh parsley if using. Having everything ready makes the cooking flow smoothly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté them for 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Add the Garlic: Stir the minced garlic into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter followed by the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and then add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring frequently until the cheese melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken and creamy sauce. Toss everything together, gradually adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce evenly coats the pasta and reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and ensure it clings perfectly to the pasta.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
