Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes, yet delivers incredible flavor. The tender garlic butter chicken bites paired with rich, creamy Parmesan pasta make for a mouthwatering combination that will please everyone at the table. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

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

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

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

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Toss chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and cook garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix in reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

4. Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce. Top with garlic butter chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swappork instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time as necessary.: Use shrimp, turkey, or diced pork instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time as necessary.

• Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, roasted tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Healthier Version: Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, but if you do, reheat with additional cream or milk to prevent separation.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or diced pork. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, but for best results, cook the pasta fresh before serving.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with lighter options like half-and-half or a plant-based alternative and use gluten-free or whole-grain pasta.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed spinach, roasted cherry tomatoes, or broccoli can be added for extra flavor and nutrients.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work well with this creamy Parmesan sauce.

6. How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra cream or milk.

7. What can I serve this dish with?

Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the richness of the pasta.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the Parmesan cheese is free of additives.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

10. What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and give a smoother texture compared to pre-grated cheese.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect balance of rich, comforting flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out for a delightful meal everyone will love!

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish that combines succulent garlic butter chicken with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. This indulgent comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering both flavor and satisfaction in just 35 minutes.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sauté
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

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

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Pasta:

8 oz (225 g) fettuccine or pasta of choice

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

• Prepare the Chicken: Toss chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

• Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and cook garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper. Mix in reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

• Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta in the skillet with the sauce. Top with garlic butter chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

• For a healthier option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative, and use gluten-free or whole-grain pasta.

• Add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Adjust the amount of nutmeg to taste.