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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta feature image

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken bites cooked in garlic butter, served alongside creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes and offers customization options to suit various tastes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For cooking chicken and sauce.
  • 1 Large Pot For boiling pasta.
  • 1 Slotted Spoon For removing chicken bites from the skillet without excess oil.
  • 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of ingredients.
  • 1 Knife For chopping garlic and optional garnishes like parsley.
  • 1 Cutting Board Provides a safe surface for prep work.

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces; substitute with thighs or shrimp if desired.
  • Salt To taste - Season generously to enhance flavor.
  • Pepper To taste - Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Adds depth to seasoning; optional chili flakes for heat.
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted butter Divided; used for cooking chicken and making sauce.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
  • ½ cup Chicken broth For deglazing the pan and creating sauce.
  • 1 lb Pasta (penne, fettuccine, etc.) Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Creates a rich, creamy sauce; substitute with half-and-half for lighter.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for maximum creaminess and flavor.
  • Optional - Fresh parsley (chopped) For garnish and added freshness.
  • Optional - Red pepper flakes For a spicy kick.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Cook the Chicken Bites:

    • Season bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and paprika.
    • Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F), about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

    Create the Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

    Boil the Pasta:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

    Combine Ingredients:

    • Return chicken bites to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Add drained pasta and heavy cream. Stir to combine, heating through.
    • If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

    Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious and comforting meal.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of milk or broth.
      • Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
      • Healthier Option: Substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or vegetable broth and use low-fat Parmesan cheese.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are required to make creamy Parmesan pasta?
      • Pasta, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include olive oil and fresh parsley.
       
    2. Can you provide step-by-step cooking instructions for garlic butter chicken bites?
      • Season chicken, cook in butter until golden brown, remove, then prepare garlic butter sauce in the same skillet. Combine with cooked pasta and Parmesan sauce before serving.
       
    3. How can I modify the recipe to include spinach?
      • Add fresh or frozen spinach to the sauce just before combining with pasta. Stir until wilted.
       
    4. Is there a way to prepare this dish using a slow cooker?
      • Cook chicken, butter, and garlic in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours. Prepare pasta separately and combine with cream and Parmesan at the end.
       
    5. What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture for chicken bites?
      • Avoid overcrowding the pan and cook over medium-high heat to ensure even browning and tenderness.
       
    6. Where can I find a video tutorial for this dish?
      • Check cooking websites, YouTube, or social media platforms dedicated to food for visual guidance.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the dish further.
    • Presentation: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a lemon wedge for visual appeal.
    • Leftovers: Use leftover chicken and sauce in wraps, sandwiches, or over a bed of greens for a quick lunch.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added color and flavor.
    • Serving Style: Arrange chicken bites neatly on a plate or bowl, drizzle with extra sauce, and serve alongside pasta.
    • Sides: Pair with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
     
    Keyword Creamy Parmesan Pasta, Garlic Butter Chicken, Quick Dinner, Weeknight Meal