This dish features tender chicken bites cooked in garlic butter and served with creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s a rich and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug!
I love how quick and easy this recipe is. You can have dinner on the table in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: For this recipe, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs. I often go for thighs because they’re juicier and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, tofu or seitan works well for a vegetarian version!
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of the dish. You could substitute it with olive oil or a dairy-free butter if you want a lighter or vegan dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a great aroma, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—just use 1/8 teaspoon per clove. I love using roasted garlic for an even sweeter flavor!
Pasta: Fettuccine is my favorite, but you can swap in any pasta shape you have on hand. Whole wheat pasta is a healthier choice if you prefer more fiber!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste. If you’re dairy-free, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Grana Padano is a nice mild substitute if you can’t find Parmesan.
How Do You Get the Chicken Bites Just Right?
Getting the chicken bites perfectly cooked is key to this recipe! Here’s how to achieve that juicy result:
- Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. This helps sear the chicken quickly, keeping it tender inside.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming.
- Check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and be golden brown all over.
When you add the chicken back to the pan with garlic butter, it adds amazing flavor and ensures every bite is delicious!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a busy evening while still delivering that warm, comforting feeling. You’re just a short time away from a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it reaches a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining it and setting the pasta aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This will help build great flavor as they cook!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to your hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Keep it warm!
4. Make the Garlic Butter:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s fragrant—about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Toss in the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken bites back to the skillet. Toss everything together so the chicken gets coated in that delicious garlic butter. Remove from heat and let it stay warm.
6. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
Now, in a clean saucepan (or wipe the skillet dry if you prefer), melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, similar to before.
7. Add the Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream, letting it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally. This will create a beautiful, rich base for your cheese sauce!
8. Stir in the Parmesan:
Now, add your freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melted and smooth. If the sauce gets too thick, just use your reserved pasta water, adding a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Season the Sauce:
Taste your sauce and season it with salt and black pepper as needed. It should taste creamy, cheesy, and totally delicious!
10. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to coat it evenly. Every noodle should be covered in that delightful goodness!
11. Serve:
Plate your creamy Parmesan pasta and top it off with the garlic butter chicken bites. Make sure to scoop some of that lovely sauce onto the chicken bites!
12. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a bit of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water in a sealed plastic bag for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a blend of unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickness!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or milk if the sauce has thickened.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add steamed or sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color. You can stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken or toss them with the pasta before serving!
