Tired of the same old pasta routine? Craving a dish that’s both comforting and exciting? Look no further! These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are about to revolutionize your weeknight dinners. Tender, juicy chicken bites, bursting with garlic butter flavor, nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce – this is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. This delicious meal will get the whole family excited. For another fantastic pasta dish, make sure to take a look at [Creamy Tomato Pasta]. Get ready to experience pasta perfection with these irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta!

Ingredients:

To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need a selection of fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here’s the complete list: To better understand and learn about Butter, which is a Key ingredient to this recipe, check out this research study [The science of butter – NCBI Bookshelf]

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch bites. Choose chicken breasts that are plump, pink, and free from blemishes.
Butter: 8 tablespoons (1 stick), unsalted, divided. Butter is essential for both the chicken bites and the pasta sauce.
Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic is key for the intense garlic flavor.
Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon. Adds a savory, herbaceous note.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances all the flavors.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. For searing the chicken bites.
Pasta: 1 pound, your choice (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all excellent).
Heavy Cream: 1 cup. Adds a luxurious creaminess to the pasta sauce.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, finely grated. Provides a salty, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (or more to taste), for a touch of heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Creating this sensational dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

Prepare the Chicken Bites: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken bites, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, minced garlic (2 cloves), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Sear the Chicken Bites: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites in a single layer (you may need to work in batches) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Ensure these chicken bites are cooked, not charred. These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are perfect if they are cooked correctly!
Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is searing, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Over or under cooking the pasta will change the flavour. So be careful when completing these steps of the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining minced garlic (4 cloves) and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant (but not browned). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Add the Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure that it is well melted, the creamy texture of this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe!
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add the seared garlic butter chicken bites to the pasta and toss gently. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Pro Tips:

Want to take your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta to the next level? Follow these expert tips:

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When searing the chicken bites, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pan and result in steaming instead of searing.
Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a much more intense and aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta “al dente” (firm to the tooth) ensures that it holds its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
Reserve Some Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water. This can be used to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Add Lemon Juice for Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the sauce.

Conservation and Storage:

Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Cool Completely: Allow the pasta and chicken to cool completely before storing.
Airtight Container: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the pasta and sauce.

Creative Variations:

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few delicious variations to try:

Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Bites: Add sauteed spinach and artichoke hearts to the skillet mixture for a flavorful and nutritious twist.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Chicken Bites: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the chicken bites for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Mushroom and Truffle Oil Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms and a drizzle of truffle oil to the pasta sauce for an earthy and decadent experience.
Spicy Arrabbiata Chicken Bites: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes and a dash of hot sauce to the chicken bites for a fiery kick.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Replace the chicken bites with shrimp for a classic shrimp scampi pasta dish.
Sun-Dried and pesto dish! Sun-Dried tomatoes and pesto combine well and can change the entire flavour profile of the dish!
Use different cheeses: Try to use different cheeses than parmesan. A mozzarella can change the flavour.

Serving Suggestions:

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus is a healthy and flavorful side dish that complements the flavors of the pasta.
Bruschetta: Serve with homemade bruschetta for a delicious Italian appetizer.
Caprese Salad: Top the pasta with this salad for a vibrant experience!

FAQs:

Q: Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts for the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use chicken tenders. They cook even faster than chicken breasts, so adjust the searing time accordingly – about 1.5-2 minutes per side should be sufficient. Ensure they are not too overcooked.

Q: Is it possible to substitute milk for heavy cream in the creamy Parmesan sauce to make it lighter?

A: Yes, you can use milk (whole milk is recommended for best results) instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content. However, the sauce won’t be as thick and rich. Consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the milk and whisking well before adding it to the skillet to help thicken the sauce.

Q: I’m following a gluten-free diet. Can I still enjoy this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta?

A: Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are many excellent gluten-free pasta options available made from rice, quinoa, corn, or a blend of gluten-free flours. All other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Q: What’s the best type of Parmesan cheese to use for the creamy sauce?

A: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for its superior flavor and melting properties. Look for a block of Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself using a microplane or a fine grater. Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Q: I’m vegetarian. What can I substitute for the chicken bites in this recipe?

A: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken bites with:

Grilled Halloumi Cheese: Halloumi cheese is a firm, salty cheese that holds its shape well when grilled or pan-fried. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and sear it in garlic butter just like the chicken.
Roasted Chickpeas: Toss canned chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until crispy, then add them to the pasta.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or a mix) in garlic butter until tender and golden brown.

Q: What type of wine pairs well with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta?

A: A crisp, dry white wine pairs beautifully with this dish. Here are a few recommendations:

Pinot Grigio: A light-bodied white wine with crisp acidity and subtle citrus notes.
Sauvignon Blanc: A more assertive white wine with grassy, herbaceous notes and bright acidity.
Chardonnay (unoaked): An unoaked Chardonnay offers a richer flavor profile with notes of apple and pear, without being overly oaky.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet or pasta for added flavor and nutrition. Here are a few ideas:

Spinach: Add a few handfuls of fresh spinach to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking and stir until wilted.
Broccoli Florets: Steam or lightly sauté broccoli florets and add them to the pasta.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of intense flavor.
Asparagus: Lightly sauté asparagus spears and add them to the pasta.

Q: How can I prevent the creamy Parmesan sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy?

A: The key to a smooth and creamy Parmesan sauce is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and to avoid overheating the sauce. Cook the sauce over low heat and stir constantly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.

Q: Is it possible to prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Creamy Parmesan Pasta ahead of time for a party or potluck?

A: While it’s best to serve this dish fresh, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time:

Chicken Bites: You can prepare and sear the garlic butter chicken bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the skillet before adding them to the pasta.
Parmesan Sauce: You can make the creamy Parmesan sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently over low heat before adding the pasta.
Pasta: It’s best to cook the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?

A: While fresh garlic is preferred for the best flavor, you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 2 cloves of fresh garlic.

Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe, such as penne or rotini?

A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta for this recipe. Penne, rotini, farfalle (bow-tie pasta), or any other short pasta shape would work well. Adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

Q: How can I add a touch of heat to this dish without using red pepper flakes?

A: If you prefer a different type of heat, you can add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the garlic butter chicken bites or to the creamy Parmesan sauce. Alternatively, you can use a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion:

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a weeknight solution, a flavor explosion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its versatility, easy preparation, and irresistible taste make it a must-have in your recipe collection. The delicious flavours of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta make it the perfect dish. So, ditch the boring pasta dishes and embrace the delicious simplicity of this recipe. This is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Get ready to experience pasta perfection like never before!

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Print Recipe

Tired of the same old pasta routine? Craving a dish that’s both comforting and exciting? Look no further! These Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are about to revolutionize your weeknight dinners. Tender, juicy chicken bites, bursting with garlic butter flavor, nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce – this is the ultimate comfort food upgrade.

Author: Kiera
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bites
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix chicken bites with 2 tablespoons melted butter, 2 cloves minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add remaining garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Return chicken bites to the pasta, tossing gently.
Garnish with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic for an intense and aromatic flavor. Cooking pasta al dente helps maintain texture in the dish.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 750
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: garlic butter chicken, creamy Parmesan pasta, easy dinner, comfort food