Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

A perfect blend of tender chicken bites coated in rich garlic butter sauce, served with creamy, cheesy Parmesan pasta. This dish is a comforting, savory delight that will make your taste buds sing with every bite. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor — ideal for a family dinner or a special weeknight treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is an absolute winner for several reasons. The garlic butter chicken bites are juicy and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the creamy, cheesy pasta that’s rich and comforting. The combination of the two makes for a meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare. Whether you’re a fan of hearty chicken dishes or crave creamy pasta, this dish has it all. It’s also versatile, easily adjustable to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 tbsp butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add the thyme and parsley.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until well coated. Combine with the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes approximately 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

• Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

• Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a zesty, fresh flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will add even more juiciness to the dish.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make this dish spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink inside.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute with any type of pasta you prefer — fettuccine, spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

6. Is there a way to make this dish lower in fat?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for a lower-fat cheese to reduce the fat content.

7. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and pasta mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat by thawing in the fridge overnight and warming in a skillet.

9. How can I make this dish more garlicky?

If you love garlic, feel free to add more minced garlic to the sauce or use garlic powder for extra flavor.

10. Can I use non-dairy cream for a dairy-free version?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat cream to make this dish dairy-free.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving something comforting, savory, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that your family will love. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!