If you’re craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that brings restaurant-style comfort to your kitchen, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is your new weeknight hero. Juicy, golden chicken bites get tossed in an irresistibly rich garlic butter, then nestled into a silky Parmesan sauce that clings to twirls of pasta. The final dish bursts with flavor, boasts a dreamy creamy texture, and is so simple to pull together, you’ll wonder why you bothered with takeout. If you’re ready to win at dinner tonight, don’t miss this cheesy, buttery classic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta works together to create a dish that’s brimming with flavor and gorgeous texture. Simple as they may seem, each one plays a starring role, whether it’s boosting flavor, tenderizing the chicken, or giving the sauce its luscious finish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, golden bites that cook fast and stay super tender.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings a hint of fruitiness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Adds a rich, creamy base for the sauce and infuses each component with that signature buttery flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The star flavor, turning every bite aromatic and crave-worthy.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Balances the dish with herby depth.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a pop of color to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple but essential for seasoning every element just right.
- Fettuccine or spaghetti (8 ounces): Perfect for soaking up all that creamy sauce; use your favorite pasta shape.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to a rich, velvety sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (3/4 cup): Gives the sauce its bold, salty personality and thick, silky finish.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Deepens the sauce and deglazes the skillet for extra flavor.
- Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, for garnish): Lends a touch of freshness and color to the finished plate.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch gives just the right kick if you like a little heat.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your pasta until it’s just al dente. Before draining, remember to scoop out about half a cup of that starchy cooking water—you’ll thank yourself later for this secret to silky sauce. Let the noodles hang out in a colander while you move on to the main event.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Bites
While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This quick seasoning step is what turns simple chicken into craveable, flavor-packed bites worthy of star billing in the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and half your butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer so each piece can develop that gorgeous golden crust—don’t crowd the pan! Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, just until the chicken is cooked through and gloriously golden. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), melt the rest of your butter and add the garlic. Stir just until fragrant, about a minute—careful not to let it burn. This simple step creates that signature garlicky butter base that ties the whole dish together.
Step 5: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits left from the chicken—that’s pure flavor right there. Add the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and glossy. If it’s looking too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water until you’ve got silky perfection.
Step 6: Finish the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat every strand with that gorgeous sauce. Return your juicy chicken bites to the skillet and toss everything together, letting the flavors meld for another 2 minutes. This last step gives you the classic, soul-warming Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta experience!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Garnishes
A flurry of chopped fresh parsley adds crucial brightness and a burst of green to offset the creamy, golden tones. If you’re up for a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top too. Sometimes, a wedge of lemon or a dusting of extra Parmesan feels just right—don’t hesitate to layer on your favorites!
Side Dishes
This dish is a showstopper on its own, but a side of garlicky sautéed green beans or crisp Caesar salad brings freshness to every bite. A hunk of crusty bread is also perfect for chasing every last drop of sauce from your plate. With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta on the table, your meal is already a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Twirl the pasta into neat mounds and nestle the chicken bites on top for a restaurant-worthy touch. Or, serve family-style on a big platter, garnished with parsley and Parmesan, so everyone can dig in and help themselves. For parties, skewer the chicken and twirl pasta nests into appetizer spoons for an elegant, bite-sized starter featuring all the irresistible flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, let everything cool down completely before popping it into an airtight container. The pasta and chicken keep well together and will hold up in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing their creamy charm.
Freezing
While you can freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, the cream sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. If you do freeze it, use a tightly sealed freezer-safe container and eat within a month for best results.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to wake up the sauce. Microwave works too for quick lunches, but pause to stir halfway through so the cream sauce stays luscious and doesn’t overcook.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While fettuccine and spaghetti are classic choices, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even gluten-free noodles if you like. The Parmesan cream sauce happily clings to any shape you love.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. For extra richness, you can add a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese.
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?
This dish is at its best when served right after making, but you can prep components ahead by chopping and seasoning the chicken and grating your Parmesan up to a day in advance. Reheat leftovers gently for the creamiest results.
How can I add more vegetables to the dish?
You can toss in baby spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms right into the sauce. Roasted broccoli or asparagus also make excellent, flavor-boosting additions to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Definitely! For super speedy dinners, shred store-bought rotisserie chicken and heat it in the skillet with the garlic butter before tossing with the sauce and pasta. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a meal that checks every box—creamy, savory, comforting, and unbelievably easy—Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is about to become your weeknight go-to. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish never fails to steal the spotlight and satisfy every craving. Give it a try and see just how easy dinner magic can be!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these delectable Garlic Butter Chicken Bites served with a creamy Parmesan pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Sear the chicken: Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic. Add chicken broth, cream, and Parmesan. Simmer until smooth.
- Combine: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Add chicken back to the pan and warm through. Garnish and serve.
Notes
- You can use different pasta shapes for variety.
- Enhance the sauce with lemon juice or white wine.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for desired heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
