Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
There’s something magical about a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is just that—a delightful combination that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Whether you’re looking to impress your loved ones or simply need a quick solution for a busy weeknight, this recipe has you covered.
With tender chicken bites bathed in rich garlic butter and creamy parmesan pasta, it’s a flavor-packed dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish is a game-changer for busy nights.
It comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
The rich flavors of garlic butter and creamy parmesan create a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Plus, it’s versatile—great for family dinners or impressing guests.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success.
For this dish, you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Butter: The star of the show, adding richness and flavor to the chicken and sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for that aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the chicken and pasta.
- Pasta of choice: Any type works, but I recommend something that holds sauce well, like fettuccine or penne.
- Heavy cream: This creates the luscious, creamy sauce that makes the dish irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated for a nutty flavor that complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness to garnish your plate.
Feel free to get creative!
You can swap out chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
If you’re looking to lighten things up, half-and-half can replace heavy cream without sacrificing too much creaminess.
And don’t hesitate to toss in some veggies like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Cooking this dish is a breeze, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you capture all those delicious flavors.
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the butter is bubbling, toss in the minced garlic.
Sauté it until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
This step is crucial; it infuses the butter with that irresistible garlic flavor that will elevate your chicken bites.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet.
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked.
Make sure there’s no pink left inside; we want tender, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions.
Timing is key here; you want the pasta to be al dente, so it holds up well when tossed with the creamy sauce.
Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet with the chicken, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the heavy cream.
Stir everything together, allowing the butter to melt and the cream to heat through.
Then, gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a luscious, creamy sauce.
This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring it all together.
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring every strand is coated evenly.
This step is essential for that rich, savory flavor to cling to the pasta.
If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To plate, serve the creamy parmesan pasta on a dish and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
And there you have it—a beautiful, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken; this ensures even browning.
- Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency.
- For extra flavor, let the garlic sauté until it’s just golden, but not burnt.
- Garnish with freshly grated parmesan for an added touch of richness.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Pot: Use a medium-sized pot for boiling pasta; a deep saucepan can also do the trick.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups: Handy for precise ingredient measurements.
- Colander: Essential for draining pasta; a slotted spoon can work in a pinch.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
- Cheese Variety: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful, buttery addition.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors.
- Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls for an elegant touch, garnished with extra parsley.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if needed to keep it creamy.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and flavor. Just sauté them along with the chicken for best results.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
I recommend using pasta that holds sauce well, like fettuccine or penne. However, feel free to use your favorite type—just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy.
The aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, the satisfaction of a creamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta, and the smiles around the dinner table make it all worthwhile.
This dish is a celebration of flavors that brings family and friends together.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.
So grab your apron and let the culinary magic unfold!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a Flavor Packed Dinner!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious and flavorful dish featuring tender garlic butter chicken bites served alongside creamy parmesan pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
- Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Serve the garlic butter chicken bites over the creamy parmesan pasta and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
