I recently made this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe, and I can honestly say it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners. The chicken bites are perfectly tender, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite irresistible. Pairing it with creamy parmesan pasta makes it feel like a restaurant-quality meal at home.
I love how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy evenings. You can also enjoy similar heart-shaped side ideas like Valentines Day Roasted Potato Hearts Recipe, which adds a fun twist to family meals. Plus, it’s a dish that everyone in the family actually enjoys.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – choose fresh chicken for the best texture.
- 3 tablespoons butter – unsalted works best so you can control seasoning.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic enhances flavor far more than pre-minced.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – adds a subtle smoky sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – season gradually and adjust at the end.
- 1 cup heavy cream – ensures a rich and creamy sauce; avoid low-fat substitutes.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded.
- 8 oz pasta of your choice – fettuccine or penne work beautifully. You can even switch to a trendy noodle style inspired by the TikTok Spaghetti Recipe for a fun variation.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – brightens the dish and adds freshness.
Note: Serves several.
Variations
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit dietary preferences or enhance flavor:
- Use dairy-free cream and parmesan alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Add spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for a veggie boost.
- Swap pasta for gluten-free or whole wheat options.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- For an extra herbaceous touch, include thyme, basil, or rosemary.
Cooking Time
Here’s a simple breakdown of the time commitment:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta efficiently.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking chicken and sauce together.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for gentle stirring.
- Colander – for draining pasta without losing noodles.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. This ensures your noodles are perfectly firm and ready to absorb the creamy sauce.
Cook the Chicken
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked, which usually takes about 6–8 minutes.
Make the Sauce
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, then gradually add the parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This step ensures the sauce coats every chicken bite perfectly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with chicken and sauce. Toss gently to make sure every noodle is covered with the luscious, buttery sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish with Butter
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and stir until melted. This small step intensifies the richness of the dish, giving it that irresistible homemade comfort-food taste.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve immediately. The parsley adds a bright color contrast and fresh aroma that elevates the dish.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my experience, small tweaks can make a big difference:
- I always use fresh garlic and high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Tasting as you cook helps balance the salt, pepper, and cheese perfectly.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce enhances the depth subtly.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender, not dry.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
This dish looks as good as it tastes. I like to serve it in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of parsley on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also offer extra parmesan and red pepper flakes so guests can customize their plates.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough idea of what you’ll be getting per serving:
- Calories: approximately 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 28g
This makes it a balanced, hearty dish suitable for family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually reheat gently on the stove to maintain creaminess.
Freezing
You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly and add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s texture.
Reheating
Warm the dish over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this dish will quickly become a favorite:
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Comfort Food Appeal: Creamy pasta and buttery chicken provide cozy flavors.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the tender chicken bites.
- Versatile: Easy to modify with vegetables, spices, or alternative pastas.
- Elegant Presentation: Looks impressive on the plate while being simple to make.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is my go-to for a satisfying, easy, and delicious meal. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and quick cooking time make it ideal for any weeknight or special occasion.