These garlic butter chicken bites are super tasty! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, making every bite full of flavor. Paired with creamy Parmesan pasta, it’s a match made in heaven!
Who can resist buttery chicken and cheesy pasta? I like to make extra to enjoy leftovers the next day, but let’s be real—I usually finish it all in one go. 🍽️ It’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. If you need a substitute, turkey cutlets or tofu (for a vegetarian option) can also be delicious. I often use thighs for extra juiciness!
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over the salt level in the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil, although the flavor may slightly differ.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds great flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove you need to replace for a balanced flavor.
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine are classic choices, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love! Gluten-free pasta works too, just be aware of different cooking times.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is ideal for texture and taste. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be a good swap.
How Do You Cook Chicken to Get It Just Right?
Cooking chicken bites can be tricky, but here’s how to get it perfect:
- Make sure the chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking. Pat them dry—this helps with browning!
- Heat the oil and butter until hot but not smoking. Add the chicken in batches if needed; crowded pans can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until nicely browned. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Don’t rush! Giving the chicken space in the pan will help it develop a golden crust that enhances the dish’s flavor.
Why is the Creamy Parmesan Sauce so Important?
The creamy Parmesan sauce is what brings the whole dish together! Here’s how to nail it:
- Melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned. Browning can make the garlic bitter.
- When adding the cream, do it slowly while stirring to avoid curdling and to keep it smooth.
- Stir in the cheese gradually—it melts better and creates a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water bit by bit until you reach your desired consistency.
This sauce balances the chicken bites’ garlic butter sauce, making each bite a delightful experience!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes to prepare. It includes cooking the pasta, chicken, and making the creamy sauce—perfect for a quick and comforting dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (if your skillet is too small, cook in batches). Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and dried Italian herbs. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss everything together to coat the chicken in the garlic butter. Cook together for about 1-2 more minutes, then remove from heat.
6. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate saucepan or the same skillet (after cleaning it), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat.
8. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
9. Serve:
Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta, then top it with the garlic butter chicken bites. If you like, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
10. Enjoy:
Serve immediately and indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of garlic butter chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress anyone sitting at your dinner table!
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This recipe is a delightful, indulgent meal that’s perfect for quick weeknight cooking or special occasions! Enjoy every cheesy, buttery bite!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can provide more juiciness and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, as you would with breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that cook up nicely!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute.
