Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy – The garlic butter chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, Parmesan sauce.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful and Comforting – Packed with savory garlic butter and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Bites

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and olive oil. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream.
2. Add the garlic powder and bring to a simmer.
3. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
2. Stir the sautéed chicken bites back into the skillet.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added flavor and nutrients.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a little extra cream or pasta water.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and full of flavor, though they may take slightly longer to cook.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

What types of pasta work best for this recipe?

Penna, fettuccine, or farfalle are perfect as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich, satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner that feels indulgent yet simple. Try it tonight and enjoy a creamy, garlic-infused dish that’s impossible to resist!

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