Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of garlic butter chicken bites sizzling in a skillet, mingled with the irresistible scent of creamy Parmesan pasta. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties.

I first tried this recipe on a whim, combining pantry staples with a craving for something hearty yet elegant. To my surprise, it quickly became a family favorite. With tender chicken bites, a rich garlic butter sauce, and silky Parmesan-coated pasta, it’s hard not to love every bite.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites Recipe

Prepare to fall head over heels for this easy and crowd-pleasing recipe! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and versatility.

1. It's Quick and Simple
From prep to table, you can whip up this dinner in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those days when time is short but your appetite is big.

2. A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser
The tender chicken bites and creamy pasta pair beautifully, but you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit picky eaters or dietary preferences.

3. Bursting with Flavor
The rich garlic butter sauce infuses every bite of chicken with a savory kick, while the Parmesan pasta is creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

4. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Made with accessible ingredients like chicken, garlic, pasta, and Parmesan, this recipe is both affordable and satisfying.

Trust me, after your first bite, this will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients, each contributing to the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it works.

1. Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cube and cook quickly, making them perfect for bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, chicken thighs offer an even juicier result if you prefer a richer flavor.

2. Fresh Garlic
Minced garlic is the star of the sauce, bringing bold, aromatic depth to the dish. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic paste can work in a pinch.

3. Butter and Olive Oil
The combination of butter and olive oil provides richness while preventing the butter from burning during cooking.

4. Pasta
I recommend fettuccine or linguine for their ability to hold the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully, but penne or spaghetti also work well.

5. Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is essential for the sauce. Pre-shredded options can contain additives that prevent melting, so always opt for the freshest block you can find.

6. Heavy Cream
The base of the creamy sauce, heavy cream adds luxurious texture and flavor. For a lighter option, try half-and-half, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.

No special equipment is needed—just a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a cheese grater.

How To Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Making this dish is as enjoyable as eating it! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small, even cubes. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan so everything is ready to go.

2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust, then flip and cook through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and toss to coat in the sauce.

4. Cook the Pasta and Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, boil your pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. In the skillet, pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Gradually add the grated Parmesan, whisking until smooth. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness if needed.

5. Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Add the chicken bites on top and garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This recipe is a perfect 30-minute dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Storage Options

This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce, so consider adding a splash of cream or milk when reheating.

Freezing
While the pasta can be frozen, the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing. If you freeze the dish, store it in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a little water, broth, or cream to revive the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some ideas to switch things up.

1. Protein Options
Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.

2. Add Veggies
Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.

3. Gluten-Free Alternative
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.

4. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Lighten It Up
Replace heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter version of the sauce.

Experiment with these ideas to make the dish your own—you can’t go wrong!

With its tender chicken bites, garlicky richness, and creamy Parmesan pasta, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it tonight and see why it's such a hit!

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