Description
Craving a comforting and indulgent dish? Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect choice. Tender chicken bites coated in buttery garlic sauce are paired with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Chicken
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add another tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken in garlic butter. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the sauce’s consistency by adding some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired thickness.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Parmesan sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s fully coated and warmed through.
- Assemble the Dish
- Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken bites.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan make a world of difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside to keep it tender and juicy.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Customize the Heat: Increase chili flakes or add cayenne for more spice, or skip them for a milder dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American