Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken bites with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy dinner, offering bold garlic flavors and a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how this dish is both indulgent and easy to prepare. The garlic butter chicken bites are seared to perfection, giving them a crispy, golden-brown exterior while remaining juicy inside. The creamy Parmesan sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just over 30 minutes. Plus, it pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Bites:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)

1 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Cook the Chicken Bites:

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the chicken pieces with paprika, onion powder, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare 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, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.

Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.

Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce.

Add the nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Return the chicken bites to the skillet and mix until combined.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories per serving: 520 kcal

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken for more heat.

Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for added texture and flavor.

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap butter for olive oil to cut down on fat.

Protein Swap: Try shrimp or sliced sausage instead of chicken for a different take.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: The sauce may separate when frozen, so I recommend enjoying this fresh. However, if needed, freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Related Recipes:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

FAQs

How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, I add a little reserved pasta water or a splash of milk to loosen it up while tossing the pasta.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I recommend cooking the chicken ahead and storing it separately. When ready to serve, make the sauce fresh and toss everything together for the best texture.

What’s the best pasta to use for this dish?

I prefer fettuccine for a rich, creamy bite, but penne and spaghetti work great too. Choose what you love!

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

Yes! Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of cornstarch can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich.

How do I make this dish even more flavorful?

I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors or toss in some extra garlic butter for richness.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. The golden, buttery chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pasta, making it a meal that always impresses. I love how quick and easy it is to prepare, yet it tastes like something from a restaurant. Try it for dinner tonight, and enjoy every delicious bite.

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