A plate of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is like a warm hug in food form. Imagine tender chicken pieces coated in rich garlic butter, mingling with creamy parmesan pasta that’s so good it should come with a warning label for addictive qualities. This dish doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds; it wraps you in a comforting embrace that makes you forget about the world outside.
Every time I whip up this dish, I can’t help but recall the first dinner party I hosted. My friends devoured every last bite and declared me the culinary queen of simple yet impressive meals. Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are sure to become your new go-to recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip this up on a busy weeknight without breaking a sweat
- Its flavor profile balances rich garlic butter with creamy parmesan goodness, creating a dish everyone adores
- Visually appealing golden-brown chicken bites paired with luscious pasta make any table look gourmet
- Versatile enough to serve as an elegant entrée or casual weeknight meal, it fits every occasion perfectly
I remember the first time I made Garlic Butter Chicken Bites; my partner’s eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning when he took his first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size and hunger levels.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves; they pack a powerful punch of flavor that dried garlic just can’t match.
- Butter: Opt for unsalted butter; this allows you to control the saltiness better.
- Cream: Heavy cream is preferred for its richness; it makes everything so much dreamier.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor.
- Pasta of Choice: Fettuccine or spaghetti works wonders here; just pick your favorite!
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the garlic without burning it—nobody wants that bitter taste!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together beautifully.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional): Chopped parsley adds color and freshness, making your dish even more inviting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preparation Time: Gather all ingredients on your countertop and set aside about 10 minutes for prep time.
To begin, preheat your skillet over medium heat while you season the chicken. Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures each piece bursts with flavor during cooking.
Next, melt some unsalted butter in the hot skillet until it starts bubbling invitingly. Toss in minced fresh garlic once the butter is melted—get ready for an aroma that’ll have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Now add those seasoned chicken bites into the skillet. Cook them until they turn golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Turn them occasionally so they don’t get too cozy on one side.
Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside for now. In that same glorious skillet (don’t clean it!), pour heavy cream and let it simmer gently while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom.
Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted smoothly into a luscious sauce—all those cheesy dreams are coming true! Add salt and pepper to taste before tossing in your cooked pasta.
Finally, return those flavorful chicken bites back into this creamy paradise. Mix everything together gently until well-combined—let each bite be coated in garlicky goodness!
For an optional fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over your delicious creation before serving hot!
Dig into this delightful dish and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
You Must Know
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that not only delivers on flavor but also offers a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen
- The combination of garlic and butter makes every bite irresistible, while the creamy pasta adds a luxurious touch
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken bites first for that golden crust, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time and remains warm.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or add veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a personal twist. This flexibility lets you cater to your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, marinate chicken bites in garlic and herbs an hour before cooking
- Always use fresh garlic for a punchy taste
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for perfect texture
The first time I made Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had a chance to take a picture!
FAQ
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?
Consider pairing it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything except the sauce and store separately until ready to cook.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian version.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a delectable dish featuring tender chicken in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with creamy pasta for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves fresh garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2. Melt unsalted butter in the skillet; add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- 3. Add seasoned chicken bites and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
- 4. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and simmer while scraping up browned bits.
- 5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted; add cooked pasta and mix well.
- 6. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Marinate chicken ahead of time in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the pasta.
