Are you craving a hearty, satisfying dish that’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite? Look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. Perfectly seasoned chicken bites, coated in buttery garlic goodness, paired with luxurious, creamy pasta, make this recipe an irresistible winner.
For busy parents looking to whip up a meal the whole family will love, cooking fans eager to explore new flavor combinations, or pasta lovers searching for their next comfort food fix, this dish ticks all the boxes. Best of all, it only takes 35 minutes from start to finish! Stick around as we walk you through everything you need to create this delightful dinner.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta
Opt for pasta varieties that can hold the creamy sauce well, such as fettuccine, linguine, or pappardelle. Their wide, flat shape ensures every bite is coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic make a significant difference in the dish’s overall taste. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains additives that can affect the sauce’s texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Keep the chicken bites tender by searing them on high heat for a short time. Overcooking may lead to tough and dry pieces.
- Reserve the Pasta Water
The starchy pasta water is a secret weapon for achieving a perfectly smooth and silky sauce. Use it to adjust the consistency to your preference.
- Season Gradually
Taste as you go to avoid over-salting. Remember that Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so adjust your seasoning carefully.
- Work Quickly
Combine the pasta and sauce while everything is still hot. This helps the sauce adhere perfectly to the noodles for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with Garnishes
While fresh parsley and Parmesan are classics, feel free to try different herbs like basil or even a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can elevate this already delectable dish and make it truly unforgettable!
Cooking Variations 🌟
Delicious Variations
- Add Veggies: Throw in sautéed spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
- Go Spicy: Love a bit of heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, turkey, or tofu bites if you want to mix things up.
- Use Whole Grain Pasta: For a healthier twist, substitute regular pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options.
These versatile ideas ensure your meals are far from boring.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
To round out your meal, consider pairing your dish with the following sides and accompaniments:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the creamy pasta and adds a refreshing balance.
- Garlic Bread or Baguette: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus, green beans, or zucchini provide a healthy and vibrant addition to your plate.
- Roasted Potatoes: For a hearty option, serve alongside golden roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and olive oil.
- Glass of White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the garlic butter and parmesan sauce.
These pairings elevate your meal, creating a perfectly balanced and delicious dining experience.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over low to medium heat for the best results, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring thoroughly to ensure even heating. Avoid overheating, as this may dry out the dish or alter its texture.
Nutritional Information 🔍
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: ~600
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~32g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~2g
While this dish may not be the lightest, it’s packed with nutrients and bursts of flavor that make every calorie worth it.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large Pot
- Tongs or Spatula
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Return chicken to the pan and toss in garlic butter. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 4: In a clean skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, then simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Season to taste.
- Step 5: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Step 6: Plate pasta, top with garlic butter chicken bites, and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ ❓
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of liquid if needed to restore its original texture.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Are there any ingredient substitutions?
Certainly! You can swap out the protein for a plant-based option like tofu or tempeh. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream or cheese substitutes. Additionally, you can use gluten-free alternatives for any pasta or bread components.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or fresh chopped chili peppers during the cooking process. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
Make It Tonight ✨
There you have it—an indulgent, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners, laid-back entertaining, or any time you’re craving comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Why not give it a try tonight? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a restaurant-level meal in the comfort of your own home. We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments or tag us on social media with your delicious creations.
Happy cooking (and eating)! 🍝