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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, creamy pasta. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in a fraction of the time. The chicken bites are seared to golden perfection in garlic butter, creating a rich flavor that perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy pasta. It uses simple, readily available ingredients and provides a complete and balanced meal that is both filling and irresistible.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts, boneless, skinless: 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

  • Butter, unsalted: 4 tablespoons

  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced

(Additional ingredients typically required to complete this dish based on standard recipes: about 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or penne), 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley for garnish.)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

  6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.

  7. Return the chicken bites to the skillet, mixing gently to combine with the pasta and sauce.

  8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.

  • Vegetable Addition: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

  • Different Protein: Substitute shrimp or turkey breast for the chicken.

  • Herb Enhancement: Use fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.

  • Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a light cream alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the pasta and chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time and add the chicken just to warm through.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works well, but fettuccine and spaghetti are also great choices.

Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?

Yes, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can be used for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking the chicken by searing it quickly over medium-high heat until just done.

Is it possible to make the sauce without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use evaporated milk or a combination of milk and a bit of flour to thicken the sauce.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine added before the cream can enhance the sauce’s flavor.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but you can cook the pasta and chicken separately and combine them just before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Allow the sauce to simmer gently to reduce and thicken naturally or add more Parmesan cheese.

Should I use fresh or pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for better flavor and melting properties.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a mouthwatering meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with rich, creamy pasta for a dish that satisfies every craving. With minimal preparation and bold flavors, it is a reliable go-to recipe for comforting and delicious dinners any night of the week.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

Tender, juicy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served over a rich and Creamy Parmesan Pasta make for the ultimate comfort meal! Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy chicken pasta recipe is packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

For the chicken bites:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the creamy Parmesan pasta:

  • 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

  • While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Add the chicken bites, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

  • In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Keep warm.

  • In a separate pan (or the same skillet after transferring the chicken), melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  • Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Add reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.

  • Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta topped with garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

  • You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

  • Add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies!

  • Adjust garlic to taste if you love it extra garlicky.

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