Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

When you take a bite of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, the rich flavors burst in your mouth, creating an irresistible moment. This delightful dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare and the combination of garlic, butter, and creamy Parmesan uniquely elevates the chicken and pasta.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress guests. You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The garlic butter bath makes the chicken exceptionally flavorful and tender.
• Creamy Parmesan sauce envelops each pasta piece for a comforting, rich experience.
• It’s a quick 30-minute dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Versatile enough to swap out proteins or veggies as desired.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this hearty meal.

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Use any pasta type you love for this dish.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breast can be replaced with thighs.
• Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
• Fresh parsley can be swapped for basil.
• Use low-fat cheese for a lighter option.

How to Make It

Creating this dish is simple and rewarding!

Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken Bites

Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if desired), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Parmesan sauce until evenly coated. Return the chicken bites to the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta and sauce.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, because it will alter the sauce’s texture.
Reheat: on the stove over low heat for 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Make sure not to overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness.
• Reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top just before serving for an elevated finish.
• Use a high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy it on a cozy movie night for a comforting treat.