This dish brings you juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any night!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of buttery chicken and rich parmesan sauce? I love making it when I want a quick and tasty dinner that feels special. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I usually go for chicken thighs because they stay juicy, but chicken breasts work well too. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is perfect—just shred it and add it in!
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the saltiness. If you’re watching your butter intake, you could substitute with olive oil, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best taste. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, but fresh is always better for richness!
Pasta: I love using fettuccine for a nice, thick bite, but you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or linguine. Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth. If in a rush, you can use pre-grated, but it won’t be as creamy. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Achieve the Best Garlic Flavor in My Chicken?
Getting that rich garlic flavor in your chicken bites is all about timing! You want to add the garlic to your skillet early but not too soon to avoid burning it.
- First, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic—cook for about 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Then, add your chicken pieces with the herbs and spices.
Keep stirring until the chicken is golden brown. Cooking garlic this way gives you a deep, savory flavor without bitterness!
Enjoy making this dish—it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried parsley
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick yet impressive meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring to ensure it doesn’t burn. Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and the Italian herbs. Cook, stirring often, until the chicken is golden brown and thoroughly cooked—about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 more cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
4. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it’s completely melted and the sauce turns creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper, adding red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
5. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Add the drained pasta to the creamy sauce and toss it well until the pasta is evenly coated. Then, return the chicken bites to the skillet and gently toss everything together to combine and reheat the chicken.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is mixed and warmed through, serve the creamy Parmesan pasta topped with the garlic butter chicken bites. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! It’s a crowd-pleaser and sure to become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and soak it in cold water for a quick thaw. Always ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the pasta just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Make It Healthier?
Sure! To lighten the dish, consider using skinless chicken breast, whole grain or veggie pasta, and reducing the amount of butter. You can also use low-fat cream or a dairy-free alternative for the sauce while still keeping it flavorful!
