Busy weeknights call for recipes that combine simplicity, speed, and irresistible flavors. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta ticks all those boxes and more. Juicy, tender chicken bites cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce pair perfectly with a velvety Parmesan pasta that will leave your taste buds singing. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes of your time.
This dish is a lifesaver when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy pasta sauce is packed with savory notes, while the chicken bites are seared to golden perfection, adding a satisfying texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe delivers big flavors and smiles around the table. Read on to discover how you can make this delectable dish your new go-to meal.
2. Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites:
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- 300g fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
3. Directions
For the Chicken Bites:
- Season the chicken cubes with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Remove the chicken from heat and set aside.
For the Parmesan Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
4. How to Prepare
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them well.
- While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce by sautéing garlic, then whisking in cream and cheese.
- Assemble by mixing the pasta with the sauce, then top with the chicken bites. Garnish with parsley.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4 hearty portions.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta work well.
Q2: Can I substitute heavy cream?
A: Yes, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk are great alternatives.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?
A: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Q5: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Very! Kids love the creamy pasta and tender chicken bites.
8. Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with bold flavors that everyone will enjoy. The golden chicken bites and rich, cheesy pasta sauce create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a weekday meal or a dinner party showstopper.
With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, this dish makes the perfect solution to busy evenings without sacrificing quality or taste. Try it tonight and experience a restaurant-worthy meal right from your kitchen. You’ll love how effortlessly delicious it is!